The COVID-19 global crisis has made personal hygiene more important than ever before. Advice from health practitioners including your family dentist in Waterloo to regularly wash your hands with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds or use a hand sanitizer gel when the former is not possible is pivotal in managing this crisis. It is also important to remember personal hygiene doesn’t just protect you but also those around you.
Some studies have found a link between poor oral hygiene and the severity of COVID-19, however, information is still scarce. Regardless, as a trusted family dentist in Waterloo, we recommend adhering to the following oral hygiene precautions during this crisis.
COVID 19 – Oral Hygiene Precautions from a Family Dentist in Waterloo
Never Share a Toothbrush
You should never share a toothbrush with anyone no matter how close you are or how you are related. This is one of the ways that viruses and other disease-causing microbes can be transmitted to and from other people. This also means you should ensure that you keep toothbrush heads apart from each other for all the household occupants.
Close the Toilet Lid before Flushing
Some studies have suggested that the SARS-CoV-2 virus can be spread through fecal matter. Although inconclusive, it is important to note that whenever you flush your toilet, some of the spray flies out and may land on toothbrushes in the vicinity.
Therefore, ensure you close the lid before flushing or better still, place your toothbrushes a safe distance away from the toilet.
Change Your Toothbrush Regularly
It is important to change your toothbrush at least every three months or sooner – or at least the brush head. This is not only important in ensuring the toothbrush is effective, but also in preventing the spread of bacteria. If you have suffered from COVID 19 or even suspect you may have been infected, change your toothbrush immediately.
Visit Your Family Dentist in Waterloo
It is always important to routinely visit your family dentist in Waterloo. However, while emergency treatment might still be available, other routine procedures might have to be postponed so make sure to phone ahead.
Don’t Forget the Basics
In addition to visiting your family dentist in Waterloo, don’t forget the basic day-to-day habits that maintain good oral hygiene;
- Brush 2 times daily with a fluoride toothpaste – once before sleeping at night and one other time during the day. After every meal is best.
- Cut down on sugary foods and drinks and drink plenty of water
- Clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes and consider using a mouthwash or our OraCare prerinse. Ask us for more details.
Remember that oral hygiene has a direct impact on your immunity as well so follow the above measures to protect yourself and those around you. For more information, feel free to reach out to us anytime at Waterloo Smiles, your favourite family dentist in Waterloo for more information.