{"id":442,"date":"2021-03-15T10:42:00","date_gmt":"2021-03-15T10:42:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rauchberg.com\/blog\/?p=442"},"modified":"2021-04-01T10:47:39","modified_gmt":"2021-04-01T10:47:39","slug":"nagging-face-masks","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rauchberg.com\/blog\/2021\/03\/15\/nagging-face-masks\/","title":{"rendered":"How Wearing a Face Mask Can Affect Your Oral Health"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Because of COVID-19, face masks are being worn all around the globe. However, it has been found to pose an oral health threat. This is unfortunate, given that wearing a facial covering serves as a key means of preventing<\/a> the spread of the virus. How can you protect yourself from COVID-19 while still preventing any oral health problems? Continue reading to find out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

The Oral Health Problems Associated with Wearing a Mask<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

During the battle against COVID-19, a new term has emerged: mask mouth. The condition, which is becoming more prevalent, is even affecting people with no previous history of oral health issues. Whereas poor dental hygiene is a common cause of unhealthy teeth and gums, there is evidence that wearing a mask can have a similar effect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Understanding Mask Mouth<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends wearing a mask to prevent respiratory droplets from entering the mouth and nose and causing infection. However, the mask contributes to mouth dryness, which encourages bacteria growth. As a key part of the mucosal immune system, saliva serves as a protective barrier and contains antimicrobial components that help fight bacteria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here is how having a dry mouth can directly impact oral health:<\/p>\n\n\n\n