by TLC Dentistry · published May 8, · 2020 Last updated November 17, 2023 · 3 min read First off, I’d like to wish everyone health and wellness during this crazy time we’re currently living in! Folks, this virus sucks. It’s completely new, and its behavior is unfamiliar. Please know that we are following the recommendations from our governing bodies extremely tightly. However, I have a good feeling we’ll be back in operations sooner than later. We have to, or I’ll have to start looking for a new profession. A friend suggested opening a Tiktok account and shoot for the stars, what do y’all think? Alright, let’s get into the topic here… I did a little research and thought it would be a good idea to give you guys a few tips and advice concerning oral hygiene during this crazy time. Recent studies show that the virus may be living in saliva. What does that mean for you? It ends up on your toothbrush and all over your bathroom! Luckily, with a little extra care, there are steps we can take to prevent this. Here are our top 10 tips for a safe oral hygiene routine during COVID-19: 1. Wash your hands before starting Never touch your mouth or toothbrush before washing your hands thoroughly. Wash with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before performing your oral hygiene routine. 2. Protect your children If you help your child brush their teeth, make sure to wash both your hands before brushing. 3. Disinfect the brush handle After using your brush, wipe the handle with a safe disinfectant. Why? According to the NIH, the virus may live 2-3 days on plastic. You can use 70% alcohol solution and even run your toothbrush through the dishwasher weekly. 4. Don’t contaminate the toothpaste Be careful not to touch the tip of the tube directly onto your toothbrush. Either transfer the paste with a cotton swab to your brush or even better – have your own toothpaste (and floss! Yes I said it, the F word). 5. Rinse toothbrush in hot water after each use Hot water rinses away paste that may hold germs after brushing. 6. Never share a toothbrush No explanation required here, folks. If you are sharing an electric toothbrush handle, make sure you disinfect after each use. 7. Trash your toothbrush after being sick If you use an electric toothbrush, you only need to replace the head. Remember, toothbrushes and brush heads should be changed every three months. 8. Do not place your toothbrush in drawer/cabinet Dark and damp places are bacteria’s playground. It sounds like a scene in a scary movie, but it’s true! Ideally, place alone in an individual holder. 9. Social distance while brushing your teeth Bacteria from your mouth can enter the air as you brush, so avoid anybody brushing at the same time as you. 10. Social distance your toothbrush This means you should isolate your toothbrush, just like you’d isolate yourself from people if you were sick. Avoid side-by-side storage. Instead, keep your toothbrush by itself in a separate area from others. Did you try these tips for oral hygiene during COVID-19? Hopefully, you find these tips helpful in keeping you and your family healthy. Even better, you may find it beneficial to maintain these habits after COVID-19 passes. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns! Virtual help is available We are now offering FREE Virtual Consults for ALL current and new potential patients. If you have a broken tooth or a toothache, or simply want to know how you can improve your smile, please reach out and I’ll be happy to help. Schedule a Virtual Consultation Call us: 831-757-1038 Email us: info@tlcdentistry.com Request an appointment online
"I love the entire team at TLC Dentistry! From Ms. Janis, the office manager, who goes out of her way to make your experience super pleasant and effortless, to Melinda, the hygienist, who is very detailed and experienced, to assistants, who are very efficient. And of course, the lovely Dr. Natalia, with her gentle approach, knowledge and experience, and Dr. Alexander, who is comprehensive and highly skilled in his craft. You feel like a part of a family when you walk through the door. No anxiety or worry! I switched my entire family to TLC Dentistry and I am confident they will always take great care of myself and the people I love!"
