Tips for the flu season for your oral health
Cold and flu season is just around the corner. Despite our best efforts, sometimes it can be impossible to avoid getting sick. When it comes to your smile, there are a few special considerations to take next time you catch a bug.
- Replace Your Toothbrush
Flu viruses live up to 72 hours on a moist surface making your tooth brush an ideal place for bugs to park and multiple. It’s also never a good to share a toothbrush with another person or family. Store your own brush away from other family members toothbrushes preferably in a cabinet with doors (especially if your sink is close to the toilet.) Replace your tooth brush every 3-4 months and when you have recovered from a sickness to avoid getting re-infected.
- Prioritize Hydration
We all experience dry mouth as a result exhaustion fighting the illness and not drinking enough fluids. Medications such as antihistamines, decongestants and pain relivers add to decreased saliva flow. Dry mouth is not only uncomfortable but it also increases the risk of tooth decay. Chewing gum or sucking on a sugar free cough drops can also stimulate saliva production and provide temporary relief. Many people enjoy a cup of hot herbal/green tea to help a scratchy throat. It has many benefits for your oral health too. It’s best not to add extra lemon or sugar to your cup. High sugar consumption leads to tooth decay and lemons are acidic, which erode tooth enamel. If you must use sugar and lemon, moderation is the key and do brush 30 minutes after consumption.
Stay Heathy This Flu Season!
It is easy to let simple thigs, like brushing your teeth, slip when you aren’t feeling well. Stay up on your oral health routine and keep these tooth-healthy tips to prevent your illness from taking a toll on your smile.
Sycamore Street Dental, 258N Sycamore Street, Newtown, PA 18940.
PHOTO CAP: It’s flu season. What does that mean for your toothbrush?