Beware of Mask Mouth

Life as you knew it has been severely altered since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Even as the country slowly begins to move into the “new normal,” some things may need to remain in place for the foreseeable future. Thinking the corona virus will one day go away is an exercise in futility. The modern-day influenza virus is a descendent of the virus that caused the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic. Scientists and epidemiologists will eventually find a way to minimize the harm the corona virus causes, and vaccines will help dramatically to stop it from spreading; however, there is a chance it may never completely disappear. In the meantime, many people will continue to wear masks for protection.

Dental Issues from Wearing a Mask

While wearing a mask is helpful in slowing the spread of COVID-19, it also presents certain problems to individuals who must constantly wear one. Although mask mouth is not an official diagnosis, dentists are reporting an increase in some oral problems and these seem to be related to wearing a mask.

One of the major issues is dry mouth. Wearing a mask causes many people to breathe through the mouth instead of the nose. Consequently, you have less saliva in your mouth. Saliva plays an important role in oral health. It continually bathes the teeth and soft tissues with moisture and washes away food debris and harmful bacteria. When the saliva load is decreased, harmful bacteria proliferate and can cause cavities and gum disease.

Symptoms of mask mouth include:

• Dry mouth
• Receding gums
• Sour breath
• Tooth decay

Individuals who need to wear a mask all day, every day are most susceptible to mask mouth.

If you are unaware of these changes and neglect to have them taken care of, they get worse. Gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease and a small cavity will develop into a big problem, possibly an abscessed tooth. Dentists are seeing more of these problems even in people who normally have good oral hygiene.

Preventing Mask Mouth

Many workers have to wear masks all day. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent mask mouth. Take regular breaks and get fresh air when you can. If possible, go to a place where you can take your mask off for a while and refresh your mouth by breathing in fresh air. As long as you are outside and not near other people, you do not need to wear a mask.

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. This will help improve the flow of saliva. Sugary drinks are not recommended, since they will make the situation worse by causing more tooth decay.

Brush and floss your teeth after every meal if possible and be sure to get regular dental checkups and professional cleanings. You may want to consider using an electric toothbrush as well. Keep your masks clean, as wearing a dirty mask will only collect more bacteria which you might breathe back into your mouth.

If you notice any significant issues with your teeth or gums, be sure to contact Sacramento Emergency Dentist. Instead of taking a chance with your oral health, give us a call for an examination, diagnosis and treatment.