​A dental charity is sending out toothbrushes to those most in need in London. They are also suggesting the public sterilise their toothbrushes as the country goes into lockdown.

The Dental Wellness Trust charity is mailing toothbrush and toothpaste packs to care homes and homeless shelters and is also urging the UK public to sterilise their toothbrushes daily with hot water and salt to prevent the spread of the virus.

For people with related symptoms (i.e. a fever, cough and shortness of breath), the advice is to replace their toothbrush after the first seven days. This will avoid any further cross infection.

For those who have had the infection, replace the toothbrush often as the person may continue to shed the virus in the saliva. It is essential to store toothbrushes away from others in the family and keep each toothbrush separate in a cup or toothbrush holder.

Coronavirus is spread through water or mucus droplets from the nose and mouth and saliva containing the virus.When the toothbrush is routinely rinsed with cold water, this does not necessarily kill the virus which remains on the brush until the next time it is used. The only way for the virus to be killed is by sterilising it after each use.

Soaking your toothbrush in 0.1% hydrogen peroxide for roughly 3-5 minutes is also an option. Then rinse out thoroughly with hot water. What’s more, wipe down the sink/surfaces of any splash after spitting out.

Dr Linda Greenwall, founder of the Dental Wellness Trust says: 'Toothbrushes can be covered in all sorts of germs from your mouth such as bacteria and viruses which will remain on its surface. That’s why daily cleaning or sterilising is essential and people are reminded not to share their toothbrush.'

For those wearing dentures, the advice is to scrub the dentures all over including all aspects of the fitting surfaces with a nail brush and a soft soap. Dish washing liquid is useful as it removes food stains. Then can soak the dentures in water adding a teaspoon of vinegar (acetic acid or white vinegar) into the water. It’s essential to keep your mouth clean and maintain and sustain your oral health.

In limiting the spread of coronavirus, it’s imperative that people regularly wash their hands with soap and water, use a tissue to cover their mouth when coughing or sneezing and avoid close contact with those diagnosed with the virus.

For any London care homes and homeless shelters in need of toothbrush/paste packs, contact Charity@dentalwellnesstrust.org

Author: