Are You Suffering From Mask Mouth?
5 Ways To Show Your Gums Some Love
February 13, 2020
The newest oral hygiene issue, caused by wearing a mask for long periods of time, is leading to a variety of dental problems like decaying teeth, receding gum lines and seriously sour breath! Have you noticed any of these symptoms recently? If so, here are a few tips to help you avoid the gross side effects if wearing a mask for prolonged periods of time:
1. Drink More Water
Saliva helps neutralize acid in the mouth and prevent tooth decay and gum disease so it’s very important to stay hydrated! Our tendency to drink less water while masked up, as well as consume more coffee and alcohol during lockdown, have also added to the problem.
2. Cut Down on Caffeine
Caffeine is dehydrating and when we’re dealing with mask mouth, the more hydrated you are the better! There’s no need to eliminate caffeine entirely, just cut back if you consume large quantities and remind yourself to drink water instead of always reaching for a coffee or tea during the day.
3. Buy a Dehumidifier
Dehumidifiers help moisten the air which in turn helps keep you from drying out. Buying a small Usb dehumidifier for your office or a larger one for your bedroom may help you combat the constant dryness you’re feeling in your mouth and on your lips.
4. Use an Alcohol-Free Mouthwash
Alcohol is dehydrating just like caffeine so if you’re using mouthwash. opt for something that doesn’t include alcohol or you’ll just further dry out your mouth every time you rinse.
5. Scape Your Tongue
So much bacteria lives on your tongue so it’s very important to keep it clean. Invest in a tongue scraper to make sure you’re cleaning it as best you can.
6. Don’t Smoke
You’ve heard this time and time again but once again we’ll remind you that smoking has many negative side effects on your oral health. When you’re trying to keep your body hydrated and eliminate the bacteria that causes bad breath, you need to ditch the cigarettes!
