While the news regularly keeps you updated in what precautions you need to take to protect yourself, staying inside and wearing a face mask while performing essential errands are not the only tips to know. In fact, there are many ways to protect yourself from COVID-19 when you’re practicing your oral care routine as well. With that said, here are a handful of the most important tips to know as you practice self-isolation and do your part to reduce the spread of the virus in your community!
Hand-Washing
We all know that the virus is likely to travel from our hands more than anywhere else, which is why hand-washing often is so important. Those same practices should be happening before and after you brush your teeth and floss. After all, your hands are going to be very close to your face and touching your dental care tools in the process.
When hand-washing, make sure to use soap and water and scrub all the surfaces of your hands for at least 20 seconds. In a pinch, using a hand sanitizer containing at least 60 percent alcohol will also do the trick.
Disinfecting Your Toothbrush
You don’t want food particles or toothpaste to be leftover on your toothbrush from the last time you practiced oral hygiene. While it’s important to rinse your toothbrush thoroughly on a regular basis, disinfecting it is a great way to get rid of microorganisms that could be lingering. You can disinfect your toothbrush by:
- Swirling the bristles in mouthwash for at least 30 seconds
- Creating a solution of 1 teaspoon of 3 percent strength hydrogen peroxide and one cup of water, then swishing the bristles in the mixture before brushing
- Soaking your bristles in a denture cleanser, making sure to follow the instructions on the label
Properly Storing Your Toothbrush
Your toothbrush can collect germs if stored improperly. Instead of keeping your brush in a small and contained space (such as a drawer), place it in an open container away from other toothbrushes and the toilet. Make sure the containers housing your toothbrush are also well disinfected. Avoid placing them on a countertop where germs are prone to spreading more easily.
Avoid Sharing Oral Care Products
Whether it’s toothbrushes, toothpastes, or floss, the last thing you should do is share oral care products with other members of your family. This is especially important if someone in your house is currently sick. However, COVID-19 symptoms can take as many as 14 days to appear, so you should avoid sharing products even if no one in your family appears to be sick.
Replacing Your Toothbrush
If you were previously sick, make sure you throw away any toothbrushes that you previously used. As a reminder, toothbrushes should be replaced every three to four months or once the bristles become frayed.
Dealing with COVID-19 can be difficult, but that doesn’t mean you can’t stay proactive during quarantine!
About Texas Dentistry
At Texas Dentistry, our dentists care very deeply about helping patients stay healthy and happy both inside and outside the practice. Whether you’re an individual seeking care or you have an entire family in need of services, their expertise is sure to make you feel safe, even during these difficult and uncertain times. While they are not currently open for non-essential treatments, you can always get emergency care handled by contacting them through their website.