First we had to worry about mask acne. Now there’s mask mouth! Don’t let dry mouth keep you from wearing a mask, it’s entirely preventable. Check out our ways of beating bad breath before it starts.
Cut Down On Caffeine
If you’re getting your caffeine from coffee then drink a little less or be sure to rinse your mouth after drinking something acidic. Coffee can cause dry mouth which leads to tooth decay at worst and mask mouth at best so cut back to allow your saliva to do its job.
Drink More Water
Dehydration is the main cause of dry mouth which can get worse with a mask on, so even if it feels inconvenient, drinking more water is more important than ever to prevent bacteria growth and gum disease.
Keep Mask Clean
To prevent both the spread of disease and growth of bacteria, try to always wear a clean mask. You wouldn’t wear the same shirt everyday, so don’t wear the same mask without washing it!
Use A Humidifier
If you keep the air around you moist then you’ll have a better chance against dry mouth. This is extra important if you live in a dry climate or have dry skin. Kill two birds with one stone!
Scrape Your Tongue
Bacteria live on your tongue and can cause gum disease and bad breath, so get rid of it as often as you brush and you’ll keep fresh all day.
Up Your Oral Hygiene
Brushing your teeth twice a day is great, but if you have the option to brush whenever you eat that can make a major difference in your oral health. You want food particles out of your mouth as soon as possible, and a sonic electric toothbrush, like TAO Clean’s Umma (found here) will give you a deeper clean.
Get Some Fresh Air
If you have to wear a mask all day, find times where you can remove it to give your mouth a break. Go outside and take a walk alone if you can, it’s good for your health and it’s good for your mouth!
Don’t Smoke
Just like how you need fresh air, you don’t need to be inhaling toxic chemicals. Nicotine reduces saliva which leads to dry mouth and this can harm your teeth and lead to extra health problems down the road.
Floss More
Brushing with an electric toothbrush is a game changer, but don’t forget to floss! This often neglected step is vital for preventing gum disease and is another key to keep mask mouth at bay.
