It’s that time of the year again. Flu season has come back with a vengeance. Medical experts are saying this is to be the worst flu season in decades. You already know that getting a flu shot is one of the best ways to protect yourself from contracting the illness, but if you do end up a victim of the dreaded flu there are steps to take to ensure you do not prolong the sickness.
Follow these recommended steps to keep your toothbrush bacteria free:
- Keep your hands clean by washing them before and after you brush so that any germs that were transferred from your mouth to your hands during the process are removed.
- Leave the toothbrush out to air dry after every use. The oxygen destroys bacteria that will linger.
- Keep the brush in an upright toothbrush holder so that excess water will drain down and the bristles will dry quickly.
- Replace your toothbrush when you become sick and after you recover to avoid becoming re-infected.
- Use a bristle cover to eliminate the risk of bacteria spreading to loved ones.
To maintain a healthy mouth and prevent the growth of bacteria follow the recommended oral hygiene regimen of brushing twice a day for at least two minutes and floss twice a day as well. Also, book an appointment with our dental office here in Flower Mound, Texas for your cleaning. You may not realize it, but this is an important step in preventing the flu. If you have gum disease you are more susceptible to bacterial infections so a visit to the dentist could help you avoid catching a cold or virus. A clean mouth is another key ingredient in the fight against the flu!