Post-COVID-19 tsunami of periodontal diseases

Shirmohammadi, Adileh

Halitosis is a medical and social problem in all communities.1 Halitosis is defined as a malodor that mainly originates from the oral cavity, which might occur when an individual has poor oral hygiene.2 One reason for toothbrushing is to avoid oral malodor during social interactions, indicating the importance of observing oral hygiene measures.3 Wearing a mask is mandatory during the COVID-19 pandemic to prevent the spread of the virus through respiratory droplets, negating the commitment to observe oral hygiene measures during social interactions.4 Therefore, it results in a decrease in the observation of individual oral hygiene measures. The dentist determines the frequency of the visits, depending on disease severity, the overall oral health, and the risk factors involved.7 Most people with a history of periodontal disease start with a three-month supportive periodontal treatment schedule. COVID-19 lowers oral hygiene habits and dental visits due to its psychological effects on the patients, facemasks, social distancing,8 and decreased immune system competency, paving the way for the induction or exacerbation of periodontal diseases.