The CDC recommends that every household practice additional sanitation measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, such as frequent hand hygiene, avoiding touching the face, and using personal protective equipment. Because the virus is spread via droplet and can be contracted when it comes into contact with your mucous membrane, or your nose, eyes, or mouth. Read on to learn five oral care tips to practice at home during the COVID-19 crisis.
Wash Your Hands Before Brushing Your Teeth
It’s no surprise that you should be washing your hands regularly to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This is especially important before you brush and floss your teeth, because your hands will likely be coming into contact with your eyes, nose, and mouth. So, be sure to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds regularly throughout the day, especially before your hands will be near your face.
Disinfect Your Toothbrush Regularly
It can be easy to spread germs from your hands to your toothbrush and handle, because you pick it up at least twice each day. To prevent this from making you ill, be sure to disinfect your toothbrush at least once each week. Soak the handle of your brush in one-part bleach to nine parts water or in a 70 percent alcohol solution. You can also run your toothbrush through a dishwashing cycle or boil the toothbrush for at least five minutes.
Clean Your Toothbrush Holder
The toothbrush holder is one of the dirtiest objects in most homes, because it’s the ideal place for bacteria to grow due to the moisture and lack of light that reaches the bottom of it. To prevent the spread of these germs to your toothbrush, be sure to run your holder through the dishwasher or soak it in a disinfectant or cleaning solution for about 10 minutes and rinse it out.
Don’t Share Any Oral Hygiene Products
Even if you’re self-isolating with family members, try to avoid sharing any of your dental hygiene products, such as your water flosser and toothbrush. This will help prevent the spread of any viruses or bacteria among family members.
Prevent Infection By Handling Dentures Safely
If you have dentures, you can prevent the spread of infection and germs by practicing safe handling. Be sure to wash your hands when placing or removing your dentures from your mouth. Make sure to regularly sanitize your replacement teeth in denture cleaning solution and avoid damaging them by placing a rag on the bathroom counter to put them on to prevent them from accidentally falling to the ground.
During these unsure times, it’s important to practice additional safety measures, especially when your hands are near your face. With these precautionary measures, not only will you be able to reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19, but you’ll also be keeping your mouth healthy!
About the Author
Dr. Marc Moulton has over three decades of experience helping his patients improve their oral health and preserve their smiles. He has completed a one-year residency program with the Veterans Administration Hospital and regularly takes continuing education courses to stay up-to-date with the latest technology and practices. For questions or to schedule an appointment, visit Moulton Dentistry’s website or call 205-988-3360.