Lately, while shopping for clothes, footwear, and accessories, we also look for a mask to go along with the outfit. People are experimenting with many variations, from surgical masks to colorful printed ones. 

Of course, it all started with the necessity to protect oneself from the unwanted microorganisms flying around in public places. But these small pieces of protective wear have also made us aware of the foul smell coming from our mouths; don’t deny it!

What is a mask mouth?

Masks have proven to be such helpful tools in fighting the battle against the pandemic. While wearing a show has become a part of our life and lifestyle, it may also give you the ‘Mask Mouth’ problem.

Researchers deduced that wearing masks for a prolonged period is the cause of the ‘Mask Mouth’ condition that envelops various symptoms and complications in oral health. 

While wearing masks, we tend to drink less water which leads to dehydration; it also dries up the mouth and increases the risk of infection while reducing the formation of saliva. 

What causes mask mouth?

Wearing masks for an extended period of time can lead to oral health problems. Let us discuss how mask mouth can cause oral side effects

• Disrupted breathing patterns: Mask can impact the way you breath. As a result, you are taking shallow, rapid breaths rather than deep ones by using your diaphragm. When you breathe out of your mouth, you decrease the amount of saliva, which protects your teeth from cavities and cleans away food debris.

• Dehydration. Wearing a mask also makes you drink less water. Dehydration can lead to dry mouth, increasing your risk of tooth decay and bad breath.
• Recycling air. Wearing a mask traps more carbon dioxide in your mouth. The amount of carbon dioxide in this amount does not have a toxicological effect on your body. In addition, it can increase the acidity of your oral microbiome, which could put you at risk for infections or inflammatory conditions like gum disease.

Let us look at the issues that Mask Mouth may cause:

• Dry mouth occurs when your mouth doesn't have enough saliva. Having a dry mouth makes swallowing, eating, and speaking difficult. It may also lead to oral infections and tooth decay.
• Poor oral hygiene and dry mouth can lead to bad breath. Keeping your mask on for long periods of time increases your chances of getting a mouth infection. 
• Bleeding gums is a sign of gingivitis. A mask impacts the bacteria in your mouth, causing plaque build-up that can lead to gum disease. If you have gum disease then you may require a lifetime of care. Gum disease is characterized by swollen and receding gums. 
• Wearing face masks for long periods also results in tooth decay. It may be caused by bacteria breeding in the mouth due to a lack of moisture.

How do you prevent mask mouth?

Mask may be essential to wear during a Pandemic, even if you experience some mask mouth symptoms. Below are a few tips to save your mouth from the consequences of wearing a mask.

• Focus on your oral care routine
• You can use mouthwash in between cleanings
• Keep a check on your teeth and gum health
• Stay hydrated
• Use a fresh and clean mask
• Contact your dentist/health professional if you notice any signs of complications. 

Visiting a dental care professional regularly (at least twice a year) and getting your teeth checked will help you to keep up with your oral well-being. With MyDentalPlan, you can consult India's best dentists at the ease of your fingertips and get affordable treatment for all your dental problems. So now you see, the dentist is just a fingertip away! MyDentalPlan’s packages like 99/- & 599/- are meant mainly for the common man. These aren't just affordable dental plans but also provide benefits like standardization of cost, video consultations, and even free walk-in consultations. 

Do not wait for your problems to worsen; visit your nearest best dentist from India’s largest dental network TODAY!

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

About the Author:

Suprithi Choudhary, M.Pharm (Pharmacology) Medical Content writer

Suprithi is a Pharma Professional working as a medical content writer and previously worked as a Research Scientist and Senior Research Analyst

Education

• C.M Academy
• Attended the Panjab University- Chandigarh, Pharma post-graduate in Pharmacology

Special thanks to Dr Deepak Kulkarni, a dental surgeon with over 23 years of experience who proofread this blog. He graduated from the H.K.E's Dental College, Gulbarga, and has certifications in ACHS International Accreditation Education Plan; Advanced Rotary Endodontic - Restorative Continuum; and Leadership, Team Building and Customer Service Leadership from the Oscar Murphy International.