Maintaining healthy oral hygiene habits is incredibly important. Aside from keeping your smile healthy and preventing painful toothaches, good oral health can play a vital role in promoting a healthy lifestyle overall. There’s a strong connection between good oral health and a strong immune system so we want to share our favorite tips on how to boost your immunity by establishing these at-home dental habits.
Understanding Bacteria
The majority of the problems that can arise with your oral health start with bacteria. Your mouth is moist, warm, and the perfect place for colonies of bacteria to thrive. Food particles that are left in your mouth help bacteria grow, which is why it’s so important to maintain a strong dental routine to control the growth and clear out bacteria.
If left unchecked, bacteria can grow out of control, leading to gum disease, tooth decay, and cavities. If these conditions worsen, bacteria can spread from your mouth to the rest of your body.
Keeping Your Bathroom Clean
Your bathroom is where you are frequently touching your face, eyes, and mouth as you get ready for the day, which is why it’s so important to keep it clean. Taking a few minutes every day to disinfect high-contact surfaces in your bathroom such as doorknobs, drawer handles, light switches, the toilet handle, faucets, and countertops can make a big impact on ensuring your family stays healthy during this time.
Wash Your Hands Before Your Brush and Floss
It’s easy to forgo washing your hands before brushing or flossing, but doing so will drastically decrease your chances of getting sick by transferring a virus or bacteria to your toothbrush, floss, or into your mouth itself.
Make sure to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. Rub your fingertips, nails, the front and back of your hands, and in between your fingers to clean your hands thoroughly.
The Importance of a Clean Toothbrush
Keeping a clean toothbrush can help eliminate the spread of harmful viruses or bacteria. While it’s recommended to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months, it’s important to do some light maintenance to keep it clean in between changings.
Store your toothbrush away from dark, moist areas so it can properly dry after each use. Rinsing your toothbrush in hot water after each time you brush your teeth can help to rinse away any lingering bacteria.
Don’t Share Dental Hygiene Supplies
While it’s never recommended to share a toothbrush, refraining from sharing any dental supplies is more important than ever during this time. Everyone in your household should have their own container of toothpaste and floss.