When cold and flu season hit, you might be tempted to walk around with an arsenal of hygiene products. From antibacterial hand wash to disinfectant spray, the germs are everywhere and avoiding it is almost impossible. Your kids have runny noses and your colleagues spend half the day coughing profusely, so what do you do if you end up catching it? Let your dentist share 4 ways you can stay healthy and spend less time in bed.
Clean Teeth Need a Clean Toothbrush
If others in your household are sick, make sure no one else is using your toothbrush. When brushing your teeth, make sure to rinse it thoroughly after you’re done and let it dry completely.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the flu virus can remain on a moist surface for 72 hours, so if your sickly partner reached for your brush instead of theirs, go ahead and throw your brush away and buy a new one. And, if you’ve been sick, make sure to get a new toothbrush to prevent possible reinfection.
Maintain a Healthy Mouth
When you’re sick, all you want to do is stay in bed. This can mean avoiding your normal oral hygiene routine. Unfortunately, this will only make matters worse. By making sure you brush your teeth for two minutes, floss, and rinse with mouthwash, you will reduce the risk of developing respiratory disease and free your mouth from harmful bacteria.
It’s important that you remember to wash your hands before flossing to prevent the spread of germs, and if you are vomiting as a result of the flu, rinse your mouth with water and a teaspoon of baking soda afterward.
Drink Plenty of Water
Water is the key factor in staying healthy while battling the cold or flu. Not only will it keep you from having a dry mouth, which can cause bad breath and cavities to form, but it also helps to keep your system flushed out. While tea can be good to consume when sick, adding sugar or lemon will increase your risk for tooth decay and cavities.
Be Mindful of Your Medications
When stocking up at the drug store, make sure to read the labels of the medications you are buying. Many cough drops and cough syrups contain sugar, which can cause bacteria to spread and lead to tooth decay and cavities. Instead of purchasing items that contain sugar, opt for honey or a natural sweetener like Xylitol. This will keep your teeth safe from decay and still help you heal from your cold.
Don’t let the cold or flu keep you down this year. While everyone else around you is battling it, remember these simple steps to keep yourself germ-free and healthy this season.
About the Author
Dr. Rajiv Shekhadiya completed his bachelor’s degree in dental surgery from the Government Dental College and Hospital in Ahmedabad, India. Moving to the United States, he attended New York University and graduated with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. After finishing his studies, he left for Connecticut and practiced family dentistry before finally settling in Texas. He and the team at Prime Dentistry are committed to providing quality and comfort for the whole family as well as a stress-free experience. To learn more, contact us via our website or by calling (940) 514-0333.
