The recent coronavirus disease is a type of respiratory illness like the flu. Its main symptoms include a cough, fever, and in severe cases, there might be difficulty in breathing. The people who already have underlying health conditions and weakened immune systems are at high risk of getting diseased.
In order to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the CDC has recommended to strictly follow the guidelines like practicing good general hygiene, i.e., washing your hands regularly, social distancing, and not touching your face. Not only that, you and your family should also practice good oral hygiene to prevent from getting sick.
Some Oral Hygiene Tips are:
Clean and Disinfect the Toothbrush
- Disinfect and clean your toothbrush daily.
- Do not share your toothbrushes.
- Make sure it gets fresh air.
- When the bristles start getting frayed or discolored, replace its head.
Replace the Toothbrush or its Head Often
Replace the head of the electric toothbrush or get a new disposable toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. During this pandemic, dentists recommend replacing them more often than usual.
Store the Toothbrush Properly
After brushing each time, allow your toothbrush to dry by keeping it in an upright position. In this way, it can help in preventing the spread and growth of bacteria.
Practice Good Oral Care at Home
Maintain good oral hygiene at home to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues. These essential tips below can help in having good oral hygiene at home:
- Use an antiseptic mouthwash often to kill the germs and bacteria in your mouth.
- It is good to drink fluoridated water often.
- Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste twice a day.
- Floss your teeth once or twice a day to remove plaque buildup.
- Drink less alcohol and quit smoking tobacco.
- Consume a well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products.
- Limit consumption of high sugar or starch.
- Drink lots of water every day.
- Give up bad habits like ice chewing or crunching on hard snacks.
- Use a scissor to open packages, as it can make you have broken or chipped teeth.
- Wear a mouthguard if you do some hard-physical activity that could cause dental trauma.
