Good oral hygiene habits are always important. Now, during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s even more important to maintain your oral hygiene while taking precautions to avoid spreading or catching the virus. There are simple, easily-implementable things that you can do at home to help keep you and your family safe. Follow these tips from your Ellington Dentist and you’ll be better prepared to maintain your oral hygiene during COVID-19.

Protect Yourself While Brushing

Your toothbrush is something that you (should) use every day. Given that, germs pass from your hand to the toothbrush each time you touch it. If you’re not washing your hands often and become exposed to the virus, you could unknowingly pass it on to your toothbrush handle. To maintain your safety, follow these steps:

• Make sure to wash your hands before brushing
• Rinse your toothbrush in hot water after you brush to eliminate bacteria
• Store your toothbrush upright in its own container, away from other toothbrushes
• If anyone in your home becomes sick in any way, replace all of your toothbrushes

If you want to take your safety to the next level, you can disinfect your toothbrush weekly. Wipe electric toothbrushes down with Lysol wipes. Manual toothbrushes can be run through a complete dishwasher cycle

Protect Those Around You

If you don’t live by yourself, it’s vital that each household member practices oral hygiene habits that keep the other members safe. If you live with someone who is at high-risk from the virus, this is especially important.

Parents should make sure that their children wash their hands before brushing. It is also wise to make sure that you aren’t all brushing your teeth at the same time. If you have a shared bathroom counter, make sure that all toothbrushes are kept spaced apart and do not share toothbrushes and floss.

This simple advice can go a long way in keeping you safe. Though the pandemic can be a scary thing, you can avoid the virus and still maintain optimal oral health.

About the Author

Dr. Shawn Zahner wants each of his patients to stay safe while having the best oral health possible. He knows that the pandemic can be stressful and wants to be a resource for them. He is a graduate of the University of Connecticut Dental School, followed by a one-year General Practice Residency at Hartford Hospital. He is dedicated to continuing his education and being able to provide the absolute best dentistry possible. From implant dentistry to complete oral restoration, he is proud to offer options for every patient. If you’d like to know more about how to practice safe oral hygiene during the pandemic, he and the rest of the team at Zahner Dental would love to tell you more. You can reach the office at (860) 265-4591 or send them an email.