by Steve Stensland, DDSLooking at the calendar to see that flu season is in full swing can send a wave of panic through your body as you recall last winter’s awful illnesses. Nobody likes to be sick. Not only does it feel terrible, but it stops us from being as productive as we want to be. If you are feeling a bit paranoid about germs this time of year, you can take certain actions to possibly avoid any sniffles, chills, or aches. There’s no guarantee that you’ll remain germ free, but overall health often relates to dental health, so bare the following in mind:

Wash Your Hands Frequently

You may not be able to ensure complete good health all year long, but hand washing is one way to get as close as possible. The flu, in particular, is transmitted through germs within mucosal droplets. One sneeze or cough can send hundreds of microscopic germs flying through the air, landing on surfaces that you touch, and directly on your hands. As soon as you touch a germ infected hand to your nose or mouth, your body is liable to become an illness war zone. Washing hands before you do any activity that comes close to your facial orifices – eating, drinking, brushing teeth – will give you a big advantage to staying healthy.

Practice Toothbrush Maintenance

When you look at your toothbrush and realize you’ve had that same one since college (and you graduated in 1996) it may be time to invest in a new model. In actuality, toothbrush handles and bristles can be a bastion for germ infestation. A single toothbrush can be loaded with as many as 10 million bacteria, though their ability to stay alive and make you sick is debated amongst experts. People that are ill and keep brushing with the same toothbrush might not want to run the risk of re-infecting themselves. To be on the safe side, you should replace your toothbrush (or toothbrush head for an electric toothbrush) at least every 3 months, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). If you feel the flu coming on, one idea is to get a cheap, disposable toothbrush to use while you’re sick, so that you can easily throw it away when you’re feeling better.

Never Get Sick of Dental Maintenance

Be sure to brush your teeth twice-a-day and floss daily, even when you’re under the weather. Don’t forget to see your dentist every six months.

Dr. Steve Stensland graduated from MCVs School of Dentistry in 2006 after completing his undergraduate studies at Virginia Tech where he obtained a dual degree in Biochemistry and Chemistry. After graduating from MCV, Dr. Stensland moved to Williamsburg and practiced with a large group dental practice for four years before founding Stensland Dental Studio in April of 2010. He has focused his continuing education efforts on nationally recognized core curriculum covering such topics as TMJ/bruxism, surgical implantology, cosmetic dentistry, and endodontics. Dr. Stensland has built a practice founded on strong principles of integrity, compassion, and conservative comprehensive dentistry for patients of all ages. Steve has been married for 5 years and has 2 sons. Spending his free time with his family is his number one priority, but he also finds time to compete in local soccer leagues and enjoys playing tennis.

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