This time of year, winter viruses such as the common cold and the flu start to become much more common. We are much more likely to be traveling on account of the holidays, and shopping malls can be a breeding ground for these illnesses. We have had our public knowledge of prevention expanded due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But this season appears to be particularly nasty, and we need to stay on guard with our hygiene maintenance.
People might not recognize how important your immune health is in keeping your smile looking and feeling fantastic. But we are constantly fighting against the risk of bacterial infection through the largest opening into our body. It is vital to take special precautions with your oral health when taken out by one of our common winter viruses. Today, your Maple Grove, MN dentist outlines some helpful ways to stay on top of your smile maintenance while sick!
Don’t Let Your Hygiene Slip
Many people seriously ramped up their hygiene at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now that it has been nearly two full years, you might feel it’s alright to slip on some things. After all, if you’ve not gotten seriously sick yet, it stands to reason that maybe you’re fine. But just a few simple habits could help you avoid spending a few days feeling miserable in bed.
One area where you can spend the effort is in handwashing. Nobody wants to admit that they aren’t regularly washing their hands, but statistically, we’re spending less time keeping ourselves clean. Take twenty full seconds scrubbing your hands, in between your fingers, and even up to your elbow. You’ll feel better and cleaner in the process!
Don’t Put It Off
The most effective way of avoiding serious winter sickness comes with the influenza vaccine. Taking the time to receive your flu shot can help you avoid days off work, and it could even save your life. Tens of thousands of of Americans die each year from the flu, so it’s important not to risk it.
Don’t Forget Your Smile
If you find that you have come down with one of our common winter viruses, you might wonder how to best care for your oral health. When you’re feeling terrible, one of the best ways to lift yourself up is by ensuring that your smile is as fresh as possible. This means not ignoring your routine oral health maintenance. But maybe spend even more time to ensure you’re as safe as can be.
After all, your immune system is currently battling a serious viral infection, and this can leave your smile at risk. Shoulder some of the work so that your body can focus on the task at hand!
Questions About Your Smile?
Don’t let our common winter viruses harm your oral health. Stay on top of your smile when sick! To schedule an appointment, or if you have any further questions, please call Elm Creek Dental in Maple Grove, MN, today at 763-416-0606.