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It’s February. Moms everywhere know what that means: it’s cold and flu season. But did you know it’s also National Children’s Dental Health Month?
Your Bacteria Specialists
Dr. Jeff Flannery and his team at Oak Mountain Pediatric Dentistry are here to help you and your family stay well not only this month, but all year long! As dental professionals, they are bacteria specialists. Everyone usually gets sick via bacteria that enters the body through the mouth, eyes, and nose. They want to pass along some oral health tips that can help keep cold and flu at bay.
Keeping Everything Clean
1. Hands
Our number one defense in avoiding sickness is keeping our hands clean (and avoiding putting them in our mouths)! I realize that’s easier said than done with kids, which is why we must remind them over and over to keep their hands out of their mouths.
It’s crucial we wash our hands with soap and water for at least 20 to 30 seconds before preparing meals, eating, and even before brushing teeth!
2. Toothbrushes and Toothpaste
If you do get sick, be sure to toss that toothbrush and replace it with a new one to avoid re-infection. You may also consider having a separate toothpaste tube for each member of the family. This helps avoid cross-contamination when squeezing toothpaste on everyone’s germy toothbrush.
3. Retainers
Yes, even retainers need extra special cleaning attention during cold and flu season. Be sure to brush it regularly and soak retainers in white vinegar after being sick.
4. The Bathroom
Besides disinfecting the obvious bathroom hot spots (think sink and toilet), be sure to change out hand towels frequently. This is a breeding ground for germ transfer as kids often wipe their mouths on the hand towel after brushing their teeth.
More Helpful Tips
Oak Mountain Pediatric Dentistry
Dr. Jeff Flannery
205-980-1338
