The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend washing your hands several times during the day before and after certain activities. The recommended amount of hand washing time is at least 20 seconds with soap and water. Doing so can help prevent the transmitting of diseases and bacteria that you could be picking up throughout the day. If you are a person who touches your mouth a lot, you should be sure to be mindful of that when thinking of washing your hands. Remember that it’s flu season in Olathe, Kansas, and washing your hands can help keep you healthy!
Before You Touch Your Mouth
Who knows where your hands have been throughout the day. You could be inadvertently introducing harmful bacteria into your mouth’s ecosystem by touching your mouth without washing your hands. If you are busy or not near clean, running water, opt for a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol to help disinfect your hands before you touch your mouth.
Before You Brush & Floss
Depending on the type of floss you have, you may be touching the area of the floss that is entering your mouth. If you are not washing your hands first, you could be getting bacteria on the floss before putting it deep within your smile. To help keep your toothbrush and floss clean, wash your hands before you start your hygiene session at home.
Remember! It’s Flu Season
First, remember that getting a flu shot is not just for your own sake. Getting a flu shot helps to protect the vulnerable demographics like elderly, people with immunity issues, and children who may not be able to get a flu shot themselves. Secondly, washing your hands often can help prevent you from inadvertently touching flu germs and touching your mouth or nose. The more vigilant you can be about preventing the flu, the more likely you will be to stay healthy through flu season.
Be Sure to Wash Your Hands
Washing your hands can help keep you and your smile healthy. To schedule a consultation, call E-Care Dentistry, PA in Olathe, KS, today at 913-210-1701. We also proudly serve patients from Overland Park, Lenexa, Leawood, Gardner, and all surrounding communities.