Don't Want the Flu or a Cold? It Starts With Your Toothbrush!

The cold and flu season is upon us, and while it is early in the season, we are already having a moderate to severe season. Currently, Boston is in a state of emergency with the many people who come to the hospital having the flu, and several states throughout the nation, including Illinois, have widespread cases of the flu already.

While washing your hands is crucial to staying well, it is just as important to pay attention to your toothbrush, the place in which germs and bacteria can collect and be spread. Here are four oral health tips to help you from potentially catching a cold or the flu this season!

Replace Your Toothbrush Often – This is perhaps something many people will overlook when it comes to fighting the flu or the common cold. Be sure to keep replacing your toothbrush every 3 months, and always use a new toothbrush at the end of the cold or flu so that you won’t expose yourself to the old bacteria again.

Sterilize Your Toothbrush Once a Week – You should especially do this if a loved one of yours is sick. To sterilize your toothbrush, simply place it in a microwave-safe cup with 2-3 inches of water and bring the water to a boil in the microwave for 3 to 4 minutes. Try adopting this habit year-round the help prevent the numerous germs and bacteria in your bathroom from clinging to your toothbrush.

Store Your Tooth Brush Properly – Airborne bacteria can move quite easily from brush to brush, so do your best to limit contact with the other toothbrushes in the room. Always store your toothbrush upright and away from the others, and, if you can, use a toothbrush cover to protect it. Keep in mind also that the tube of toothpaste may also contain germs from touching the bristles of a germ-covered toothbrush, so use a clean finger to transport a squirt of toothpaste onto your toothbrush to ensure your health.

When In Doubt, Wash Your Hands Before and After Brushing – While encountering bacteria is inevitable, you can help decrease the amount you come in contact with when you wash your hands. Washing them before AND after can help prevent the spread of diseases that are caused by these types of bacteria, so wash up!

Remember, good dental habits are essential to having a strong and healthy body! Take care of your toothbrush and your general health, and you should have higher chances of evading the flu and cold this year!

For more tips or to make an appointment, feel free to call us at (618) 288-0600 in Glen Carbon or (618) 622-3377 in Swansea or check us out online at www.amazingsmiles.com!