LAS VEGAS (KTNV) – Doctors and dentists say they see a new wave of dental problems from wearing longer masks due to COVID-19.
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The wave is referred to as ‘mask mouth’, and includes symptoms such as bad breath, tooth shrinkage and gingivitis.
“It’s just not something we expect to see with a lot of mask wear,” says Dr. Daliah Wachs. “While wearing the mask, instead of breathing through our noses, we breathe through our mouths”
Dr. Wachs says that a lack of moisture in the mouth causes dry mouth, and less saliva is produced.
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“We need saliva to brush your teeth and keep everything cohesive,” says Dr. Wax.
The term is a play off ‘meth mouth’, which is a common term named after patients who have toothache from using methamphetamine.
However, mask mouth is not as visually shiny.
Doctors encourage continuous use of mask, saying that the key to preventing any buildup of bacteria is consistent hydration.
“Just because we wear a mask, and we do not chew gum and do not worry about people who smell bad breath, does not mean we do not have bad breath,” says Dr. Wax. “You still have to concentrate on oral hygiene.”
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Doctors also encourage patients to continue regular appointments with their dentists when offices reopen.
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