Keeping your TOOTHBRUSH cleaned during COVID-19

  

Patients are reminded to replace with a new toothbrush after recovering from an illness, such as a cold or the flu.   When you are sick and brush your teeth, bacteria or virus end up on your toothbrush.  It is important to practice proper toothbrush hygiene to prevent the spreading of the bacteria or virus on the toothbrush to anyone.  Here are some tips to keep your toothbrush cleaned during COVID-19 crisis to prevent the spreading of the virus.

Social distance your toothbrush

·       If you are sick, isolate your toothbrush 

·       Keep your toothbrush by itself

·       Keep the toothbrush by your bedside table or in another separate area

Wash your hands before and after brushing or flossing

·       Wash your hands thoroughly for 20 seconds before brushing and flossing your teeth

·       Wash your hands thoroughly for 20 seconds after brushing and flossing your teeth

·       The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds

Disinfect the toothbrush handle

·       Wipe the toothbrush handle with a safe disinfectant after using the toothbrush

·       CDC recommends using a diluted household bleach solution (4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water) or alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol.

·       Leave solution on the surface for at least 1 minute

Don’t contaminate the toothpaste

·       Do not touch the tip of the toothpaste tube directly onto your toothbrush

·       Squeeze a bit of toothpaste onto a Q-tip, then apply it to the bristles

Never share a toothbrush

·       Color coding or writing the name on the toothbrushes

·       Kids may accidentally grab the wrong a toothbrush that belongs to another family member

Trash your toothbrush after being sick

·       Replace your toothbrush with a new one so you don’t get sick again

·       The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends replacing your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months or sooner if the bristles look worn out.

·       At Dr. Anna Lee’s dental office, patients get a new toothbrush at every 3, 4, or 6 months of hygiene appointments.  They are also color-coded; pink, green, blue and lavender.

Dr. Anna Lee is a general & cosmetic dentist in Glendora, CA.  She is experienced in all phases of dentistry.  She treats patients of all ages. Call our dental office at 626-335-5114 to schedule a dental checkup or visit us at www.annaleedds.com.  You will get a complimentary goodie bag with your favorite colored toothbrush. 

Keeping your teeth healthy during COVID-19 crisis

 

The coronavirus (COVID-19) the crisis is an ongoing problem and is affecting all aspects of our lives.  Many of us are under stress and it can have negative effects on our oral and dental health.  Here is some information on maintaining your oral and dental health during the COVID-19 crisis. 

Maintain good dental and oral hygiene daily

·       Maintain a daily routine of brushing and flossing your teeth 2 times per day to prevent tooth decay and gum infection

·       Brushing and flossing your teeth reduce plaque (bacteria) build-up

§  Keep your toothbrush clean. If you were sick with a cold or flu, replace with a new toothbrush

·       Rinsing your mouth with mouthwash also helps to reduce plaque build-up

·       Use fluoridated toothpaste

Maintain a healthy diet

·       Avoid excessive snacking with starchy foods and drinks

·       Avoid alcohol and tobacco products

·       Avoid chewing on ice, hard/sticky candies, popcorn, peanut brittle or hard foods that can crack a tooth or damaged fillings

·       Good hydration is important for oral health.  Drinking water is excellent to keep you hydrated.

Relax your jaw

·       Teeth grinding and jaw clenching are common responses to high-stress situations. You may experience headaches, earaches and jaw pain

·       Take breaks throughout the day to relax your facial muscles and stretch your jaw

·       Practice stress management techniques before bed like breathing exercises

·       Make sure to mention the teeth grinding and jaw clenching problems to Dr. Lee at your next dental appointment

Do the best you can to maintain good oral hygiene, a healthy diet and relax during this challenging time.                                   

 Dr. Anna Lee is a general & cosmetic dentist in Glendora, CA.  She is experienced in all phases of dentistry.  She treats patients of all ages.   Call our dental office at 626-335-5114 to schedule a dental checkup or visit us at www.annaleedds.com.   We look forward to seeing all of our patients again soon!