How Healthy Teeth Can Help You Resist COVID-19

Did you know that a healthy mouth free of gum disease, cavities, and tooth infections can help you resist COVID-19, as well as other infectious diseases like the flu and the common cold? It’s true! Get the facts from Sarasota Bay Dental now.

A Healthy Mouth Helps Keep Your Immune System Strong 

It may seem strange to say that a healthy mouth can boost your immune system and help you resist COVID-19 and other viruses, but it’s true. How? It’s simple to understand.

All of the different systems in our bodies have limitations, and this includes the immune system. While your immune system is powerful, it can only generate so many white blood cells, antibodies, and other helpful immune cells at once.

This means that if your immune system is busy fighting off an infection in your mouth due to gum disease or an infected tooth. In some cases, bacteria from oral infections can even spread elsewhere in your body, leading to further stress on your immune system.

If your body is dealing with multiple infections, it won’t have as many resources to isolate, eliminate, and destroy other threats. This includes viruses like COVID-19. So, if you keep your mouth healthy and free of tooth decay and gum disease, you’ll be able to boost your immune system, and fight back against viruses like COVID-19 more effectively. 

Our Tips For Maintaining Your Healthy Smile

Want to avoid common oral health problems to keep your immune system in tip-top shape? Here are a few tips from Sarasota Bay Dental. 

• Brush and floss consistently – Brush twice a day for two minutes using a fluoride toothpaste. Morning and night are the best times to brush. Floss once a day to remove food and bacteria that can’t be eliminated with brushing alone.
  
  
• Consider using antibacterial mouthwash – This helps kill bacteria, freshens your breath, and rinses away food particles. We recommend rinsing after flossing for the best results.
  
  
• Get routine teeth cleanings – A six-month cleaning and oral exam from Dr. Robert Miller at Sarasota Bay Dental will ensure that your mouth is healthy, and help eliminate the buildup of plaque and tartar on your teeth.
  
  
• Quit using tobacco and reduce alcohol use – Tobacco use and excessive alcohol use can negatively affect your immune system, and also contribute to oral health issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer.
  
  
• Watch what you eat – Try to minimize the amount of sugar you eat, and maintain a diet high in healthy dairy, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats. 
  

Need A Checkup? Get An Appointment At Sarasota Bay Dental Today! 

If you are overdue for a routine teeth cleaning and oral exam in Sarasota, Dr. Robert Miller is here to help. Contact Sarasota Bay Dental online or give us a call at (941) 200-3723 to get a consultation right away. We’re taking many safety steps to keep you safe during your appointment, and are always accepting new patients in the Sarasota area.