Stage 3 restrictions are now in place which means dentists and hygienists are not allowed to perform any aerosol inducing treatments. This includes all cleans. Having to temporarily cancel our patients who were booked in for cleans to help do our part in preventing the spread of the virus, the least we could do is to give you some at-home tips so you can hold off as long as possible until we’re able see you.
Self Isolation And Oral Health
Continuing your daily oral hygiene routine is so important. Here are some recommendations (how many of the six are you already doing?)
1) Brush twice daily, once in the morning and again before bed!
Remember, it is quality, not quantity. It’s not about doing it fast, its about being gentle yet thorough. Pay special attention around your gumline – brushing too hard can cause gum recession. Opt for a softer toothbrush head, whether it is electric or manual.
2) Change your toothbrush (or toothbrush head) at least every 3 months or when you’re noticing that the bristles are worn – whichever comes first.
Please note: if you’re noticing worn bristles too often, this may mean you are brushing too aggressively. Try to keep track of how often you’re changing your toothbrush/toothbrush head.
3) Floss floss floss!!
Though we beg our patients to do so, we can understand how tedious it can be (I, myself, have been caught skipping on the floss here and there too) but it honestly makes a difference! Now that you have some spare time at home, not flossing is a no no!
Bonus tip: we highly recommend investing in a water flosser. Water flossers are amazing and almost feels like you’re getting a clean at the dentist… almost.
4) Clean your tongue.
Often, we may forget to clean our tongue when brushing our teeth. Cleaning your tongue after brushing will help in the removal of plaque and bacteria that may cause bad breath.
5) Clean your bathroom frequently.
Think about it, our bathroom is not only the storage facility of our diffusers and designer soaps – it’s where we store our toothbrushes, towels and other intimate items. Ensuring a clean bathroom will further protect us from unwanted germs or bacteria. Products containing bleach are recommended for bathroom cleanliness subject to your surfaces.
6) Drink plenty of water and cut down on sugary/acidic drinks, foods and snacks!
Hydration is key! Drinking water helps keep your mouth from being dry. It will also help you produce more saliva and assist in rinsing out bacteria.
.
Though we have elected to shut our clinic and to donate our resources to the local hospitals who need it the most, we are not going to abandon our patients. We have reception staff working from home daily. If you are in pain or discomfort, please call us on 03 9878 8208. We have emergency dentists available on-call. Our patient coordinators will assess and book you an urgent appointment accordingly, if it fits within the stage 3 restrictions.
Written By
Intan Nobury
An appreciator of art, novels and high intensity sports. With a passion for work and a dangerous addiction to tea.
