3 Toothbrush Tips for Cold and Flu Season

Feeling Down?  When you're sick, all you want to do is curl up on the couch or in bed.....we know that brushing your teeth is the last thing you want to do, but here's why you need to head to the sink anyway:

#1 - Brushing up when sick helps keep the BAD STUFF off of your teeth!

• Chances are, if you have a cough, you are sucking on cough drops.   Most times, these little doses of relief are filled with sugar.   Try a sugar-free product instead.
  
• Cough Syrup and other cold medications are also filled with sugar.  Known for "coating your throat", they also coat your teeth, tongue and anything else they come in contact with.   After you take a dose, be sure to rinse your mouth with water before heading back to bed.
  
• Acid is bad for your teeth, and while this isn't the best topic to chat about, if you are vomiting - acid is covering your teeth.  This acid wears on the enamel, weakening it and causing potential oral health issues.   If you stomach is on the "symptoms list", be sure to rinse your mouth after each episode.
  

#2 - Stay Hydrated

• Not only is this good for your body, but it's good for your oral health too.   If you are stopped up or dehydrated, saliva production decreases and you can end up with dry mouth.   Saliva is responsible for washing debris and bacteria off of your teeth between brushing, and the lack of it will leave your mouth wide open for possible problems.
  

#3 - Quarantine that Brush!

• If you have a family toothbrush holder, drawer or other storage spot - keep yours far, far away!   Make sure to put a travel cap on your brush to avoid cross-contamination.
  
• Clean your brush after each use.    Rinse your brush in OraCare or another germ-killing mouthwash to kill any viruses or germs.   Read the label first, to learn how long you should swish your toothbrush for best results!
  
• Once you start to feel better or have been given the "all-clear" from your health provider, toss your toothbrush!  Often germs and viruses can live deep in the bristles, exposing you and your loved ones to another round of illness.
  

One last tip....be sure to sneeze or cough into your elbow or a tissue to help prevent the spread of germs, and wash your hands frequently with 
anti-bacterial soap!


If you are affected by the recent round of viruses and this year's flu season, we hope you feel better soon!