Periodontal diseases are those which, as its name suggests, affecting the periodontium; that is, the tissue that supports the tooth. An early diagnosis and treatment are essential since these pathologies can worsen to the point of causing the loss of the affected tooth.

There are several factors that can cause periodontal disease. Among them, certain diseases, tobacco, genetic predisposition, or situations of hormonal changes in women. However, the main development circumstance is poor oral hygiene.

In the current health crisis situation due to the spread of COVID-19, personal hygiene takes on even more importance than ever, especially in the oral cavity. Proper cleaning of teeth, gums, and interdental spaces can reduce the risk of transmission of this disease, as well as the viral load of infected patients.

Some respiratory diseases, such as colds, flu, or COVID-19, are spread through the droplets of an infected person. Therefore, in addition, during these weeks, it is convenient to take extreme oral hygiene measures to, in this way, reduce the risk of contagion.

Therefore, you should seek out periodontal treatment for gum disease from an expert.

Oral hygiene tips to prevent periodontal pathologies and avoid contagion by COVID-19

Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain systemic processes, such as diabetes, obesity, or stress, are some of the most prominent risk factors for the development of periodontal pathologies. However, the accumulation of bacterial plaque in the interdental areas and at the base of the gums, generally due to poor oral hygiene and/or the absence of visits to the dentist, is the main cause that causes these conditions in the mouth.

The toothbrush is the most common oral hygiene aid for preventing dental disease and improving oral health. Toothbrushes can become contaminated with microorganisms present in the oral cavity.

During confinement for COVID-19, some people, for various reasons, have put aside some of their daily habits, including those related to food and oral hygiene. As a consequence, they can develop various problems in the teeth and gums.

Why can periodontal disease be aggravated during COVID-19?

The excessive consumption of carbonated beverages and ultraprocesados products, with high doses of carbohydrates and sugars, smoking, ingesting excessive alcohol, and, above all, insufficient oral hygiene can undoubtedly affect the state of the teeth and gums of the patient.

In any situation, but especially in these circumstances, in which we still spend many hours at home, it is important to maintain a series of daily routines, especially in terms of food and hygiene. If you have anxiety about this condition, just visit the oral specialist.

Correct oral cleaning is essential to keep bacteria and viruses away :

• Wash your hands before starting the hygiene routine in order to avoid contamination of the brush and the transfer of possible viruses.
• Do not share the brush and do not store it with other people’s. The heads should not touch.
• Brush your teeth thoroughly for two minutes, three times a day. Emphasize all the recesses of the oral cavity.
• Use dental floss or interproximal brushes to remove plaque and prevent the accumulation of plaque and tartar, the main focus of the development of the periodontal disease.
• Clean your tongue at least once a day, preferably in the routine before bed, since it is the part of the body where more microorganisms accumulate.
• Dry your toothbrush after use; a damp brush favors the proliferation of bacteria.
• Finish with mouthwash, preferably, use one that contains chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC); two antiseptics widely used for their effectiveness and safety. In any case, follow the recommendations of your dentist.
• Go to the dentist at least once a year for a professional dental checkup and cleaning.