Covid Letter

Hi Everyone!

I hope you have been successful navigating all the changes in our lives due to the Covid pandemic.  Things will get better!

Dentists across the nation have noticed a significant decline in their patients’ oral health.  Many people were unable to come in for their routine dental hygiene appointments due to dental office closures, job changes, covid fear, etc.  Unfortunately, oral disease never stops.  We are seeing a significant increase in periodontal (gum) disease, tartar and plaque buildup, and tooth decay.  There is also an increase in bite issues such as clenching and TMJ discomfort.  Working from home has allowed more access to sweetened liquids and increased snacking on less healthy foods.  This fuels the oral bacteria in the mouth to produce more acids and toxins, which in turn results in more tooth decay and gum disease.  Our best recommendations are:

1) Avoid sipping any liquids other than water, black coffee, or unflavored/unsweetened tea.  Virtually anything else can and will cause problems.  If you have a sweetened or acidic liquid try to drink it down quickly (10-15 minutes) then sip on water until your next break.

2) Avoid unhealthy snacking between meals.  Veggies are a great snack option!

3) Schedule your routine checkup and cleaning.  Virtually all dental problems are easier and less expensive to fix the earlier they are addressed.

Best Regards,

All of us at Northpointe Dental Care