{"id":156,"date":"2020-04-06T11:40:13","date_gmt":"2020-04-06T11:40:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.jerseydentist.com\/blog\/?p=156"},"modified":"2020-09-18T16:57:03","modified_gmt":"2020-09-18T16:57:03","slug":"5-tips-dentist-hackettstown-oral-health-quarantine","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.jerseydentist.com\/blog\/5-tips-dentist-hackettstown-oral-health-quarantine\/","title":{"rendered":"5 Tips to Maintain Your Oral Health During Quarantine"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Woman<\/a>Did you have to put off a dental checkup because of the COVID-19 quarantine? Just because you cannot visit your dentist in Hackettstown does not mean you should stop taking care of your teeth at home. In fact, it is more important now than ever to take steps to maintain a healthy mouth, body and immune system. With that in mind, here are 5 helpful tips to preserve a healthy smile and prevent dental emergencies during the quarantine.
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#1: Brush After Every Meal<\/h2>\n

One advantage of being stuck at home under quarantine is that you can much more easily brush your teeth after every meal! Every time you eat, the bacteria in your mouth break down tiny food particles and produce acids that harm your teeth. Over time, these acids wear down tooth enamel and leave your teeth vulnerable to decay. Frequent brushing helps remove harmful bacteria in your mouth and preserve your healthy smile.<\/p>\n

#2: Drink More Water<\/h2>\n

Even if you are not exercising as much at home, you should still be drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated. Drinking more water helps promote cardiovascular health and balances blood sugar, among other health benefits. In addition, drinking tap water can also help protect your smile! In many communities, water from the tap contains fluoride, a naturally-occurring mineral that strengthens teeth and reduces the risk of tooth decay.<\/p>\n

#3: Do Not Use Your Teeth as Tools<\/h2>\n

Using your teeth to open packages is not a good idea, especially right now! First, research suggests that Coronavirus can live on surfaces for several hours or longer, depending on the type of material. By using your teeth to open small bags or other packages, you may increase your risk of contracting the virus. Second, using your teeth as a tool is an easy way to accidentally chip or crack your teeth. Avoid a trip to an emergency dentist in Hackettstown by just grabbing the scissors instead!<\/p>\n

#4: Eat Teeth-Healthy Foods<\/h2>\n

Including plenty of calcium, phosphorous and Vitamin C into your diet can boost both your overall health and your smile. Calcium and phosphorus are both minerals that strengthen enamel and build strong, healthy bones. Meanwhile, Vitamin C can protect your gums from gingivitis. Here are some common sources of each:<\/p>\n