Our way of life has changed to limit the spread of COVID-19. Besides social distancing and wearing personal protection, you’ll also notice a few differences when visiting your dentist, like being asked to use a mouthrinse before seeing your dentist. Although mouthwash gives you minty fresh breath, it also serves another purpose. Here’s why your dentist is asking you to use a mouthrinse before your appointment.
Mouthwash Might Kill Coronavirus
There’s still much to learn about the coronavirus, but there are some things we’ve come to know about the infection, like the fact the virus lives in the mouth and throat. As a result, it’s natural for researchers to look for methods to kill it at the source of transmission. Since mouthwash is routinely used to neutralize harmful bacteria in the mouth, it’s normal to wonder if it can have the same effect on COVID-19?
Researchers at the Cardiff University School of Medicine have been focusing on the effectiveness of mouthwash to destroy the virus. While previous research has found mouthwashes to kill other viruses, like SARS-CoV-2, there’s much to learn about the effects on coronavirus.
Researchers have discovered mouthwashes containing ethanol, chlorhexidine, cetylpryidinium chloride, hydrogen peroxide, or povidone-iodine can temporarily kill the virus. Although it’s not a cure, rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthrinse can destroy bad bacteria in your mouth, including COVID-19. This adds a layer of protection to keep everyone in the office safe during your visit.
Your Dentist is Keeping You Safe
As dentists reopen their doors to routine visits, dental office safety is a top priority. Your dentist has implemented several new protocols to reduce the transmission of the coronavirus. You’ll be asked to wait in a virtual waiting room to ensure social distancing.
Upon entering the office, you’ll be asked to wash your hands and a brief health assessment will be performed. A member of the dental office will take you back to the clinical area for your visit. Besides brushing and flossing, you’ll also be asked to rinse your mouth for 60 seconds with an Oracare solution to reduce bacteria in your mouth.
Your dental team will keep everyone’s health and safety in mind by also doing their part to prevent COVID-19. They will wear the appropriate personal protection, including gloves and masks. In some cases, they may even wear a face shield.
Choose Safe Dental Care
As your dental office reopens, you’ll notice a higher standard of care to ensure the safety of patients and staff. Although using mouthwash might seem like a small step, it can have a large impact on keeping the dental office germ-free.
About Dr. Jonathan E. Mason
Dr. Mason earned his dental degree from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. He has also completed advanced training in many areas of specialty, including oral surgery and sedation dentistry. He remains well-versed in the latest protocols, including the standards recommended by the CDC. If you have any concerns about our safety measures, contact our office today to speak with a member of our team.