The world continues to uncover the widespread impact of coronavirus on our health. It is no secret that the disease can have various implications for your organs and other parts of your body. But can COVID-19 damage your teeth?
COVID-19 acts as an infection, so it spreads rapidly through your body, impacting any number of things internally. In addition, new studies show that coronavirus is also causing oral health problems. While there is still much to learn about COVID-19’s impact on your teeth, research points to numerous cases relating the virus to oral health concerns.
Here’s a look at several ways the virus can incur damage to oral health after the coronavirus.
Blood Flow
It is well-known that coronavirus affects the quality of blood flow in the body. There are growing theories that the virus’s negative impact on the body’s blood flow is causing problems for our teeth. Healthy circulation allows red blood cells to deliver oxygen throughout the body and white blood cells to ward off disease. Your teeth and gums rely on your body’s blood flow to stay healthy. There is growing concern that with the decreased blood flow to the mouth, the teeth can turn gray and fall out very quickly. Our gums are also impacted by the lack of proper blood flow, weakening them.
ACE2 Receptors
Research is showing that cavities are a gateway for COVID-19. How does this happen? Through ACE2 receptors, proteins help with vascular activities in the body. Our mouth is a residence to several ACE2 receptors, on which the SARS-COV-2 virus can latch and replicate, resulting in a mild infection without causing much harm to the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems.
Stress
More indirectly, COVID-19 is causing high levels of stress for many people. The pandemic has been incredibly stressful for people, from avoiding the illness and helping kids with virtual school to working remotely and concerns about job loss. This can impact oral health in several ways. Many people grind their teeth when stressed, leading to cracked and chipped teeth.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is always essential for your long-term oral health. Brush your teeth and floss regularly, and make time for regular visits to your dentist.
If it is time for you to have a regular check-up or questions about how coronavirus impacts your oral health, reach out to Value Dental Care. Our trained staff is always ready to help you with all of your oral care needs. We offer high-quality care at affordable prices. Email us or call us today to schedule an appointment at our Spring Hill (352-684-1274) or Crystal River (352-794-6139) locations.
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