How to Correctly Wear a Face Mask

You’ve had to make many adjustments to your life as a result of the pandemic. By working at home, refraining from seeing friends and family, and avoiding nonessential outings, you’ve been making the world a safer place. Face coverings are another way people around the country have been combatting the spread of the virus. Whether or not face coverings are required for public outings where you live, they are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Your dentist in Murphy can share some do’s and don’ts of face masks so you can continue to protect yourself and those around you from falling ill.

What is a Face Mask?

Surgical masks are loose fitting, single use filtration devices that cover the nose and mouth. By wearing one, you are reducing the likelihood of spreading an infection. They help to block droplets, sprays, and splatters that exit your mouth when you sneeze, cough, or talk. When wearing a mask, you are also lessening the probability of hand-to-face contact.

The majority of surgical masks have three layers of protection:

• The outer layer: This layer repels bodily fluids and water, so it doesn’t contact your mouth or nose.
• The middle layer: The middle layer is the most effective at filtering out certain pathogens.
• The inner layer: The inner layer absorbs moisture and sweat when you exhale.

How Do I Wear A Face Mask Properly?

To wear a face mask correctly, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands.

 

2. Be sure that the colored side is facing away from your mouth and the metallic strip is at the top of the mask. It should be against the bridge of your nose.

 

3. You must secure the mask to your face. Depending on the type of mask you have, it will have one of the following:

 

• Ear loops: Place one loop over each ear to secure.

 

• Ties: Using the upper strings, tie a bow over the crown of your head. Tie the bottom strings into a bow near the nape of the neck.

 

• Duel elastic bands: Pull the top band over your head and position it against the crown of your head. Next, pull the bottom band over your head and position it near the nape of your neck.

 

4. Mold the metallic strip to the shape of your nose for better coverage.

 

5. Pull the bottom of the mask over your mouth and chin.

 

When wearing a surgical mask, it’s important to remember to avoid:

• Letting the mask dangle from your ear

 

• Reusing single-use masks

 

• Touching the mask when it is secured to your face

 

• Hanging the mask around your neck

When Should I Be Wearing a Face Mask?

According to guidelines set by the World Health Organization (WHO), you should wear a surgical mask if you have or are caring for someone with the following symptoms.

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Other respiratory symptoms

It is recommended by the CDC that everyone wear cloth face coverings during public outings, including dental visits, to prevent unknowingly spreading the virus to others. Children under the age of two, people with breathing difficulties, and people who are unable to remove a mask on their own should not wear a face covering.

Together, by being cautious and following new precautions, we can flatten the curve of COVID-19 cases. Your safe dentist in Murphy looks forward to seeing you and appreciates the steps you are taking to keep their office safe!

About the Practice

At Murphy Family Dentistry, Dr. Jacquie Nguyen and Dr. Masoud E. Najari provide preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry for patients of all ages. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they believe in doing everything they can to keep their staff and patients safe, including wearing face masks. They have implemented 27 additional steps to keep their office protected. To learn more, visit their website or call (972) 516-2928.