As we navigate the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s crucial to recognize that the importance of oral hygiene extends beyond this specific virus. While COVID-19 remains a global concern, maintaining proper oral hygiene is a fundamental aspect of safeguarding our overall health against a wide range of infections, including COVID-19 and various other threats. This is because many infections find their entry routes through the body’s primary openings – the mouth, nose, ears, and genital routes.
Your mouth, as the largest and most exposed entry point, is particularly susceptible to the entry of various pathogens. It serves as a gateway not only for COVID-19 but also for numerous other infections. The significance of oral hygiene becomes even more evident when we consider that good oral health can substantially lower the risks of morbidity and mortality in individuals, especially those who are immunocompromised.
In this article, titled “Oral Hygiene Tips in COVID and Infection Prevention,” we will explore how maintaining good oral hygiene practices can play a pivotal role in preventing infections and reducing the risk of morbidity and mortality, not only during the COVID-19 pandemic but also in the face of various other infectious threats. Let’s delve into the critical connection between oral hygiene and overall well-being, and discover how these practices can empower us to protect our health proactively.
Importance of Oral Hygiene in Infection
Good oral hygiene prevents the spread and severity of respiratory infections such as Covid-19. So, just by keeping your teeth and mouth clean, you not only save your but others’ lives too. Poor oral hygiene is not only linked with systemic diseases/infections but badly influences their entire course. COVID-19 virus is transmitted when infected droplets are dispersed via touching, coughing, sneezing, and sometimes even breathing. Most microorganisms like COVID-19 usually enter the body through entry zones like the mouth and nose. These microbes then replicate in these areas mostly in cases of poor hygiene, and then shed and spread to the rest of the body. Our mouths and hands play an important role in the spread of infection in most pandemics. So, it’s essential that we should take extra care of our mouths and hands every day.
10 Oral Hygiene Tips in COVID and Infection Prevention
1. Clean your hands before and after cleaning your teeth and mouth
Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before and after brushing your teeth, after sneezing, coughing, before eating, and after using the bathroom. During a pandemic, take a shower right away when you get home. Thoroughly clean your hands and body, especially the entry zones.
2. Make your oral hygiene a family affair
Every member needs to do their part to keep home healthy. Educate your children about the importance of oral hygiene because they usually neglect to brush their teeth.
According to a study published in the British Dental Journal, poor oral hygiene could increase the risk of infection, especially in those with comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases. The study emphasized that microbial load from the mouth could results in superinfections (additional infections) and cause complications such as pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and sepsis.1
Good oral hygiene will not only act as a defense wall but also prevent the virus from growing and spreading. Maintaining good oral hygiene also prevents opportunistic infections such as secondary viral, fungal, or bacterial infections. Thus, good oral health not only lessens morbidity (complications/sufferings) but mortality (death) in COVID-19/flu pandemic.
3. Practice good oral hygiene daily
- Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste thrice a day (in the morning, when you reach home after your work, and at night before going to bed).
- Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth.
- Gently clean your tongue using a tongue brush/blade.
- Avoid close contact with other family members while brushing and flossing to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets.
Gum diseases may lead to severe COVID infection. A study highlighted that COVID-19 patients with gum disease were 3.5 times more likely to be admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU), 4.5 times more likely to need a ventilator, and 8.8 times more likely to die when compared to those without gum disease.2 Another study found that tongue cleaning was the most effective oral hygiene habit in reducing the spread of the virus.3
Toothpaste contains lots of soap which is sufficient enough to reduce your viral load or even kill the virus. Reduced viral load not only avoids the inflammatory storm but helps our immune system to build a defense against pathogens. “Insignificant viral load acts like a natural vaccine”. The toothpaste effect remains for sufficient time in your mouth and throat. Brushing thrice daily during the flu pandemic will not only help you protect yourself from getting contracted but also prevent the infection from spreading. Even if you get contracted with infection, good oral hygiene can control viral load and stop the virus from spreading to the rest of your body or to other individuals. We also recommend brushing your teeth especially when you reach your home after your work or just before visiting your health care professionals.
4. Rinse your mouth and gargle your throat
- Rinse your mouth and gargle your throat with plain lukewarm water after brushing and flossing your teeth.
- If you are experiencing symptoms such as sore throat, fever, or cough, or if you are diagnosed with COVID, it is better to start using antimicrobial mouthwash for rinsing as well as gargling.
- Make sure to spit mouthwash out after rinsing or gargling to avoid swallowing the potentially contaminated liquid.
Antimicrobial mouthwashes are very effective in reducing the severity and spread of COVID/Flu. However, we do not recommend frequent and long-term use of any anti-microbial mouthwash unless advised by your doctor. If you are hospitalized or unable to brush your teeth properly due to illness, definitely consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce your viral load from the mouth and throat. Mouthwash should be used wisely and only during certain situations.
5. Do not share your toothbrush, floss, or tongue brush with others
- When you share your oral hygiene aids with someone, you also share their germs or vice versa. Remember, many individuals are asymptomatic or even contagious with COVID-19 for several days before showing symptoms.
- According to research, sharing toothbrushes, toothpaste, and toothbrush container are all possible routes of cross-contamination.3
6. Disinfect your toothbrush and other oral hygiene aids
- Dip your toothbrush and tongue blade in a glass of water with two teaspoons of baking soda dissolved in it.
- Disinfect your used floss in the same way, and then discard.
- Soaking your toothbrush and tongue brush in mouthwash overnight once a week.
7. Store your oral hygiene aids properly
- Keep all your oral hygiene aids (toothbrush, floss, tongue brush, etc.) in a separate and dry container, or use a toothbrush cover or cap. Do not keep them in a dark and moist environment or in a closed container.
- Let them air dry upright and away from others’ toothbrushes. Don’t keep all your family member’s toothbrushes in the same container.
8. Keep your toothbrushing area clean
- Disinfect your toothbrush holder regularly.
- Regular cleaning of cups or trays that holds toothbrushes, and contaminated surfaces like counterparts, sink handle, and napkin.
9. Replace your toothbrush once you recover from contagious sickness
- Use a new toothbrush and other hygiene aids once you recover from contagious infections like flu or a cold. A study suggested that not changing toothbrushes after a viral infection could play an influential role in spreading COVID-19.
- Properly disinfect and then discard all your used oral hygiene aids.
10. Eat healthy food
- Eat a high-fiber, low-sugar diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables.
- Avoid/limit highly refined sugary food/drinks.
- Avoid snacks between meals.
- Drink plenty of water daily.
- Rinse your mouth with water after each meal.
If you have a dry mouth due to certain medical conditions or side effects of certain medications, it is necessary to drink plenty of water or use mouth moisturizer. A dry mouth increases the risk of tooth decay and gum diseases.
Conclusion
During the pandemic, all we need is to switch on our basic senses. Remember, the course of any pandemic is not decided by medicines but by your health, hygiene, and behavior. Your health, hygiene, and behavior can save lives.
FAQs
Q1: Why is oral hygiene so important in the context of COVID-19 and other infections?
A1: Oral hygiene is crucial because it serves as the first line of defense against many infections, including COVID-19. Pathogens can enter the body through the mouth, and maintaining good oral health can help reduce the risk but severity of infection.
Q2: How does oral hygiene relate to COVID-19 specifically?
A2: COVID-19 primarily spreads through respiratory droplets, but the virus can also enter the body through the oral route. Good oral hygiene can minimize the chances of virus transmission through the mouth.
Q3: What are some practical oral hygiene tips for preventing infections?
A3: Practical tips include regular brushing and flossing, using mouthwash, staying hydrated, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption. These habits help maintain a healthy oral environment.
Q4: Are there oral hygiene practices that can benefit immunocompromised individuals in particular?
A4: Yes, immunocompromised individuals should pay extra attention to their oral health. Regular dental check-ups, gentle brushing with a soft toothbrush, and avoiding harsh or alcohol-based mouthwashes can be beneficial.
Q5: Can good oral hygiene really lower the risks of morbidity and mortality?
A5: Absolutely. Research has shown that individuals with poor oral health may be at higher risk of developing complications from infections. Maintaining good oral hygiene can contribute to overall well-being and reduce the risk of severe outcomes.
Q6: How often should one visit the dentist for optimal oral health during the COVID-19 pandemic?
A6: Regular dental check-ups are essential. Consult with your dentist to determine the best frequency for your specific needs while considering pandemic-related precautions.
Q7: Are there any specific oral hygiene practices recommended during a pandemic like COVID-19?
A7: In addition to your regular oral hygiene routine, consider using a mouthwash with antiviral properties, and be vigilant about hand hygiene before touching your face.
Q8: Can you recommend any natural remedies for maintaining oral hygiene and preventing infections?
A8: Natural remedies like oil pulling with coconut oil or using baking soda as a gentle toothpaste alternative may complement your oral care routine. However, it’s important to note that oil pulling should not replace regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. Oil pulling is a traditional technique with anecdotal evidence supporting its benefits. However, scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited, and further research is needed to establish the effectiveness of oil pulling in these areas. It is advisable to approach these claims with caution and consult with dental and medical professionals for comprehensive advice on oral and general health.
Q9: How can I encourage my children to practice good oral hygiene during the pandemic?
A9: Make oral hygiene fun by using colorful toothbrushes and floss holders setting a brushing and flossing routine together, and explaining the importance of oral health in simple terms they can understand.
Q10: Where can I find reliable information on oral hygiene and COVID-19 prevention?
A10: Trust reputable sources like the World Health Organization (WHO) and your local health authorities for guidance on oral hygiene practices and COVID-19 prevention.
Q11: What is the difference between rinsing and gargling?
A11: Remember, rinsing and gargling may look the same thing, rinsing helps you clean the inside of your mouth and tongue, whereas gargling enables you to clean the back of your tongue, tonsils, adenoids, throat, and back of your nose.
Q12: What is dental plaque?
A12: Dental Plaque (Bacterial and food deposits) is the main cause of tooth decay and gum diseases. Dental plaque is a sticky invisible bacterial film formed when refined sugar or starches aren’t cleaned off your teeth and bacteria quickly begin feeding on them and form plaque. The plaque provides food and shelter for microorganisms. Plaque constantly forms in our mouths, especially after meals. The acid released from the plaque after the bacterial breakdown of sugar causes decay and gum diseases. Carbohydrates (sugar and starches), especially refined ones can be easily broken down by bacteria compared to protein, fat, and vitamins.
References
- Could there be a link between oral hygiene and the severity of SARS-CoV infections? V Sampson, N Kamona, A Sampson. British Dental Journal, 2020 vol: 228; pages 971-975.
- Association between periodontitis and severity of COVID-19 infection: A case–control study. N Marouf, W Cai, K Said, H Daas, H Diab, V Chinta, A Hssain, B Nicolau, M Sanz, F Tamimi. Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 1st Feb 2021.
- Gonzalez‑Olmo et al. (2020) ‘Oral hygiene habits and possible transmission of COVID‑19 among cohabitants’, BMC Oral Health (2020) 20:286.