How Should You Prevent Oral Infections?

Western dietary habits is causing oral diseases, particularly among school children.¹

Proactive and preventive measures can help achieve good oral health and control infections.

To safeguard your oral health, practice these at home:

Proper cleaning of the mouth: The ideal frequency for brushing is twice a day, using fluoride toothpaste, and flossing at least once daily.^1,2
Early detection of the disease: Regular checkups with a dentist, typically once a year, are essential to catch and address any emerging issues.²
Increase Resistance of Teeth: By consuming fluoride-rich foods and using fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash. ²
Fight Plaque and bacteria: Proper brushing, using interdental cleaning aids, and using antimicrobial mouth rinses (preferably those containing Povidone Iodine) can help fight oral bacteria.²
Modify Diet: Reduce refined carbohydrate intake, avoid sticky foods, and incorporate caries-protective foods like cheese, nuts, and raw vegetables.^1,2

Additionally, request these in-office preventive measures to your dentist-

Protective coating application (pit and fissure sealants) on the chewing surfaces of teeth.²

Fluoride varnish applications.²

Early-stage caries treatment.²

Here Are Some Additional Tips for particular conditions:

If you have oral wounds, use Povidone Iodine mouth rinse to prevent infection.³

If you have diabetes, maintain sugar levels, as it can lower your risk for complications, including gum disease. ⁴

If you are pregnant, maintain good oral hygiene and do not skip dental appointments.⁵

If your medication causes dry mouth, consult your doctor for an alternative medication that doesn't have this side effect. ⁴

If dry mouth is unavoidable, drink plenty of water, chew sugarless gum, and avoid tobacco products and alcohol.⁴

Seek medical or dental advice if you experience sudden changes in taste and smell.⁴

If you're a caregiver, assist older individuals in brushing and flossing their teeth if they cannot perform these tasks independently.⁴

Remember, oral health is integral to your overall well-being, so make it a priority.

References-

Al-Qahtani SM, Razak PA, Khan SD. Knowledge and Practice of Preventive Measures for Oral Health Care among Male Intermediate Schoolchildren in Abha, Saudi Arabia. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020 Jan 21;17(3):703. Doi: 10.3390/ijerph17030703. PMID: 31973187; PMCID: PMC7038016.
Shah N. Oral and dental diseases: Causes, prevention and treatment strategies. NCMH Background Papers•Burden of Disease in India.
Amtha R, Kanagalingam J. Povidone-iodine in dental and oral health: a narrative review. J Int Oral Health 2020;12:407-12.
CDC[Internet]. Oral Health Tips. Cited on: 12 October 2023. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/basics/adult-oral-health/tips.html
Healthline[Internet]. Tips for Preventing Oral Health Problems; updated on: 03 December 2015; Cited on: 09 October 2023. Available from:https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-oral-health-prevention