In response to Anaheim (Calif.) Councilwoman Lucille Kring’s Aug. 11 comments that wearing masks can cause serious dental issues, Ramesh Gowda, DDS, president of the Orange County Dental Society, said, “There is no scientific basis for that.”
Several recent articles circulating the internet have included claims that mask-wearing can cause mouth dryness and a buildup of bacteria that leads to dental issues. Dr. Gowda said neither is likely, and if people are experiencing more dental issues, it’s likely due to poor oral hygiene. Some patients are also hesitant to visit the dentist for cleanings amid the pandemic, which can result in poor gum health, Dr. Gowda said.
If masks caused dental issues, medical professionals would have more dental problems because they wear masks every day, said Shruti Gohil, MD, associate medical director of epidemiology and infection prevention at UC Irvine.
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