With Covid-19, we have been faced with new challenges. One of those challenges is getting used to wearing a mask.

Some dentists believe in a new thing called “mask mouth”, which stems from wearing a mask for several hours of the day and involves the buildup of bacteria and/or dry mouth. The dry mouth (decreased saliva) is due to increased mouth breathing and you need saliva to fight bacteria and help cleanse your teeth. All of this can then, unfortunately, lead to things like halitosis (bad breath), receding gums, and tooth decay.

That said, some believe that these issues happen more to people simply not practising proper oral hygiene…and perhaps more people blaming poor dental care on their mask usage.

All in all, mask mouth isn’t anything to concern yourself with. If you take good care of your teeth overall, brush and floss twice a day, stay hydrated, watch what you eat and drink…you’ll be just fine. And hey, maybe the thought of mask mouth will keep you more focused on keeping your teeth healthy. Whatever works, right?!

For family, cosmetic, and emergency dental in Surrey, please call us at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry: 604-593-8201.