When you are under the weather, your immune system is depleted and you feel exhausted. This is when, for many people, oral hygiene habits start to slip. Our Saint Paul dentists are here to encourage you to make a special effort to keep up with your oral hygiene routine in sickness and in healthy. Keep reading to get some simple tips on things you can do.
Ditch your old oral hygiene tools
If you are using an old toothbrush, now is the time to swap it out for a fresh one. Older brushes are less effective, because the bristles have worn down, and they can actually harbor bacteria.
Drink plenty of water
Staying hydrated is crucial to your healing, and it also gives your smile a boost. Water refreshes your smile, and dislodges oral bacteria and food particles. Plus, as you drink water, you are actually prompting natural saliva production.
Avoid sugary products
Take care to use mouth rinses, cough drops, and other ameliorative measures that are sugar-free. Keep in mind that bacteria use sugars and refined carbohydrates as fuel, so it is in your best interest to minimize the presence of these types of foods and drinks in your diet.
Keep your oral hygiene tools within reach
Sometimes when we get sick, we can start to feel so exhausted and worn down that even completing our daily oral hygiene routines can seem too strenuous. To make it easier on yourself, try placing some oral hygiene tools, like mouth rinses and floss, right next to your bed, so that you can refresh your smile whenever you want to.
If you are under the weather, it is likely that you are also falling behind with your day-to-day oral hygiene routine. Our Saint Paul dentists are here to help you effectively care for your smile no matter what is happening in your life. Call our dental team if you have any questions, if you want more information, or if you want to schedule a personal consultation!