The Importance of Oral Care HOW TO KEEP YOUR MOUTH HEALTHY WHEN YOU ARE SICK
Stop the Cough
Flu season is right around the corner, which means people will inevitably get sick. Whether you come down with the sniffles or a fever, one thing is for sure: Taking care of your body should be your No. 1 priority to help you stay healthy. While rest and hydration help, it’s also important to take care of your mouth. An American Dental Association dentist, Dr. Gene Romo, states that “it’s important to take care of your dental health all year, but especially when you’re sick.”
A sore throat and coughing are some of the more prevalent symptoms of the common cold or flu. Cough drops are used to soothe the throat and help reduce coughing, and while they do
work, many cough drops contain sugar. “It is like sucking on candy,” Dr. Romo says. To avoid this, check the label before you purchase them. Make sure to avoid any ingredients like corn syrup and fructose.
Swish and Spit
Brush With Care
Nausea and vomiting can be negative side effects of getting sick. Dr. Romo states that “when you vomit, stomach acids are coming in contact with your teeth and coating them.” It’s tempting to brush your teeth right away after you’ve been sick, but doing so could actually rub those acids all over your teeth. Before brushing, rinse your mouth with a diluted mouth rinse (a mixture of water and 1 teaspoon baking soda) to remove any acids that might be lingering in your mouth and wait 30 minutes.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that the flu virus can live on moist surfaces, including toothbrushes, for 72 hours. After you’ve been sick, you need to be especially mindful. It can be in your best interest to throw your toothbrush away, but if you decide to keep it, you can clean the toothbrush by soaking it in antibacterial mouthwash for a few minutes before future use.
Keep yourself and your mouth as healthy as you can this flu season!
SMILE-FRIENDLY RECIPES
BRAIN BREAK!
SINFULLY SWEET BUTTERNUT SQUASH
Inspired by WellPlated.com
This butternut squash, oven-roasted and caramelized to perfection, could almost pass for dessert. You’d never guess it’s a dish loaded with vitamins and antioxidants!
Ingredients
• 1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes • 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil • 1 1/2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 3/4 tsp kosher salt • 3/4 tsp cinnamon • 1/2 tsp black pepper • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 400 F, placing the two oven racks at the top and bottom of the oven. Then grease two baking sheets. 2. In a large bowl, combine squash cubes, olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and spices. Toss to coat, then spread mixture in a single layer over the baking sheets. 3. Place both pans in the oven and bake 15 minutes. Turn the cubes with a spatula and return them to the oven, swapping them to different racks. Continue baking 10–15 minutes until tender. 4. Sprinkle with rosemary and serve!
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