As your Prince Albert dentist reopens, keeping you safe from COVID-19 is their top priority. Numerous steps have been added to their normal infection control protocols to safeguard your health and prevent the spread of germs during your dental treatment. One of these new precautions is to rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash before care is administered. Can a mouthwash help keep you and your dentist safe from the coronavirus? Here’s what you need to know about this new step in dental patient safety during COVID-19.
What is an Antimicrobial Mouthwash?
Although they may look similar, antimicrobial mouthwashes are very different from any oral rinses you can buy at the store. Over-the-counter antiseptic mouthwashes are used to reduce the risk of infection by clearing away bacteria. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an “antimicrobial” product is designed to kill or inactivate various kinds of dangerous particles, including fungi, bacteria, parasites, and viruses.
Does Swishing with Antimicrobial Mouthwash Burn?
Many people shy away from using mouthwash because of the unpleasant burning sensation it can cause. This feeling is the result of one of its ingredients—alcohol. Thankfully, the antimicrobial mouthwash your dentist offers is a product called OraCare, which uses activated chlorine dioxide to eliminate microbes without causing a burning feeling. If you’re still feeling anxious about it, bring your concerns to your dentist.
Does Antimicrobial Mouthwash Kill COVID-19?
Antimicrobial mouthwashes were not designed to fight COVID-19. In fact, researchers are unsure of their impact on the coronavirus. However, its effectiveness against numerous harmful microbes in your mouth makes it a worthwhile precaution and second layer of protection. Typically, antimicrobial mouthwashes are used to treat serious oral infections and mild to severe cases of gum disease.
Should I Use Mouthwash Every Day to Prevent COVID-19?
Most antiseptic mouthwashes have been found to kill up to 99% of germs that cause bad breath, plaque, and the earliest stage of gum disease. They have not been tested against COVID-19 and are not recommended as a way to keep yourself safe from getting sick. Nevertheless, using mouthwash daily alongside regular brushing and flossing maintains excellent oral health, which plays a key role in strengthening your immune system and your ability to naturally fight off viruses.
Your Prince Albert dentist is implementing a range of infection control protocols in these unusual times. From instrument sanitation, to social distancing measures, to using antimicrobial mouthwash, you can rest assured they are doing everything they can to keep you as safe as possible in the office during COVID-19.
About the Practice
Legacy Dental is based in Prince Albert, SK. Led by Dr. Wilson, Dr. Yim, and Dr. Sharma, our practice aims to combine warm and personalized care with cutting-edge dentistry. We thus offer a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments, all tailored to your smile’s unique needs. Whether you want to make your grin healthier, prettier, or both, our team is here for you! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (306) 763-7841.