While flu season can begin as early as October, continuing well into May - now is commonly its peak time. To help in being proactive in fending off the flu, we wanted to share some tooth tips on how your family can fight the flu this year:
- Store toothbrushes upright and away from the toilet. Find a dry, open space where your toothbrush can breathe, aka not near a toilet or sink! If it’s left on the sink, dirty soapy water can find its way onto it. If it’s nearby a toilet, each time it’s flushed bacteria can become airborne and latch onto the brush - gross!
- Remember the three month rule! Toothbrushes should be tossed and replaced every three months. Old bristles hold on to bacteria and aren’t as effective in cleaning teeth. You may also choose to replace it sooner - after a cold or flu has run its course.
- Brush and floss regularly. Allowing food particles to sit in the mouth can open the door for harmful bacteria to enter the bloodstream. Now, your body will work on ridding itself of this bacteria which can tire the immune system, thus reducing its strength to fight off more serious infections such as the flu.
- No toothbrush sharing! No matter how close you are with your spouse or child, germs and illnesses can easily be transferred from toothbrush sharing. This also means keeping all brushes separated in their holders to prevent bristles from touching.
If you have any questions about how to better care for your child’s oral health - give any of our offices a call. Adelberg Montalvan Pediatric Dentistry has three Long Island locations. We specialize in caring for children’s teeth in a comfortable and caring environment. Call (516) 798-1111 or visit our website to schedule an appointment.
These tips to fight flu are really great and helpful. My nephew was suffering from flu and went to dentist Torrance who advised some medicines and gave some precautions too. He was recommended to me by my friend.
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