We are all living in times where health is more important than ever. Many of us are looking for ways to stay sanitary and healthy inside and outside of our homes. One little-noticed area of concern during these uncertain times, however, is oral hygiene. Taking care of your mouth in the right way can make a big difference in your overall health.
Toothbrush safety tips for a healthy mouth during the pandemic:
Make Sure Your Toothbrush Practices Social Distancing Too
Regardless of whether or not you have symptoms of COVID-19 or are exposed to the virus, it’s worthwhile to store your toothbrush separately from others. Consider keeping it in a separate holder, and place it away from other toothbrushes in your home. If you have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or exposed to the virus, consider moving your toothbrush to the area where you will be quarantined.
Wash Your Hands Before and After Brushing Your Teeth
It’s important to wash your hands prior to brushing your teeth or flossing. The CDC recommends that you wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Alternatives include using hand sanitizer or 70% isopropyl alcohol (though this may leave you with a bad taste if you accidentally get some in your mouth). Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after brushing and flossing as well.
Disinfect Your toothbrush Often
It’s not something we think about very much, but the handles of our toothbrushes can be covered in germs, especially if you fail to wash your hands before your tooth cleaning routine. Because of this, you should use a disinfectant wipe to clean your handle often.
Be Mindful of the Tube
When you’re sharing a tube of toothpaste with others in your household, avoid touching the tube with your toothbrush. Alternatively, you can purchase your own tube of toothpaste so there is no risk of transferring germs from one brush to another.
Not Sharing Is Caring
Sharing toothbrushes with someone else is not sanitary, but this practice is even more harmful when one person is sick. No toothbrush is 100% clean after rinsing, so by reusing someone else’s toothbrush, you are passing around germs and bacteria. Make sure that everyone in your household has their own toothbrush.
Children are often in a rush to brush their teeth and may grab whichever brush they see. To avoid this, make sure to color code the brushes or try writing names on them.
Throw Away Your Toothbrush
After recovering from a sickness, it’s important to throw away your toothbrush, no matter how recently you’ve replaced it. Purchase a new one to use so you don’t get sick again. For electric toothbrushes, buying a new head will work just as well.
Keep Your Mouth Healthy With Galliano Family Dentistry
Regardless of the circumstances, it’s important to replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months if possible. Take care of your oral health by practicing good dental hygiene, and visit your local dentist for routine checkups. Is it time for yours? Contact Galliano Family Dentistry or call us at 225.296.0212 to set up an appointment.
