Paramedics who wear masks, sometimes double masks, for a prolonged time are more prone to dehydration and dry mouth, says Vinitha Ramachandran, director and consultant periodontist at Dr. A. Ramachandran’s Diabetes Hospital. This alters the composition of micro-organisms in the mouth leading to bad breath,” she says. Madras Dental College Principal G. Vimala said, two years ago the institution conducted a study to understand halitosis (bad breath). The study, published in the journal Community and Preventive Dentistry found that wearing masks did impact oral hygiene. Poor attention to oral health might lead to diseases such as dental caries, gingivitis and periodontal infection, the researchers concluded.

Source: The Hindu July 01, 2021 06:00 UTC