Viva Vitality: Caring for your oral health during the COVID-19 pandemic

By JENNA LANNAN on May 21, 2021.

The past year has been difficult and stressful for all of us. Not surprisingly, there have been numerous disruptions in routines and changes in habits. Oral health is one area that often is neglected during such times. The COVID-19 pandemic has also created a delay in receiving dental care for many children and families. As we navigate through the changes in the pandemic, it is essential to remember the importance of oral health.

Here are some tips as a gentle reminder to make our teeth a priority.

1. It is important to visit the dentist regularly. There are many times when individuals wait until an emergency sends them to the dental office. Dental care should be a priority during the pandemic and with necessary protocols in place, services are delivered safely.

2. Brushing one’s teeth is a good habit whether one is working from home or online schooling. Clean teeth = better health. The recommendation is to use a soft bristled toothbrush two times daily with fluoride toothpaste. It is also recommended that when brushing a child’s teeth from ages 1-3 (rice size amount of toothpaste) ages 3+ (pea size amount of toothpaste) is adequate. Also, flossing daily at night to remove plaque missed by brushing is important as well.

3. Adult oral care is just as important. While parents are cleaning their own mouths, it is important for them to be brushing and flossing their children’s teeth as well. It is safe to say that until children can write their names or are at least nine years old, they need help from their parents. Children do not have the dexterity to remove all the plaque that might be in their mouths. On top of regular dental exams, it is also important to be checking your child’s mouth frequently. Chalky white spots near to gum line can be the first signs of decay. Also, brown, yellow or black spots or holes can be indications of cavities. Lifting the lips up and checking on the gum line for anything out of the ordinary is also important. Never hesitate to schedule a dentist appointment if anything looks suspicious.

4. Eat well and avoid constant snacking! Snacks between meals should be given in one sitting. Some healthy choices for snacks are nuts, cheese, vegetables and fruits. Always regulate juice intake. Offer water instead and do not allow children to sip juice, milk or sugary drinks all day. If you must have sugary drinks make sure that they accompany a meal. One of the highest risks for early childhood cavities is sending child to bed with a bottle filled with milk or juice.

5. Do not smoke or chew tobacco. This has been linked to oral cancer and gum disease. Be a positive role model to your children in showing that you keep your mouth healthy and know the importance of it.

Alberta Child Health Benefits is for families with limited income that may not have insurance or money to go to the dentist or other medical providers. For any more questions please visit employment.alberta/hb-policy or call 1-877-469-5437. Alberta Health Services also offers a free dental screening and fluoride for children aged 12-35 months. Please call your local health unit with questions or visit http://www.ahs.ca/oralhealth.

Jenna Lannan, RDH, BSc is a Registered Dental Hygienist with AHS in Population Health Promotion.