Tips for Preventing the Spread of H1N1 (Swine Flu) Virus During Dental Visits
The spread of Swine Flu has caught everyone's attention, heightening efforts aimed at infection control. According to the California Dental Hygienists' Association (CDHA), the primary goal of infection control is to prevent transmission of disease, and that begins with the mouth. The H1N1 (Swine Flu) virus spreads through the respiratory system and the mouth, creating an important link between oral health and flu prevention.
Swine Flu is a serious issue of pandemic proportions, but there are steps that can be taken to prevent the spread of H1N1 and help keep you healthy in general during the cold and flu season.
The following suggestions from the CDHA can help:
People with an acute respiratory illness should not visit the dentist. If you do have such an illness and must keep your appointment, be sure to advise your dentist of your condition so that you can be treated in a single patient room with the door closed.
Wear a disposable mask or use tissues if you are coughing, and use no-touch receptacles to dispose of them.
In general, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend always observing proper hygiene/cough etiquette – coughing directly into a tissue, shirtsleeve or elbow, rather than covering your mouth with your hands. Be vigilant about washing your hands afterwards.
Use non-antimicrobial soap and water, alcohol-based hand-rub or antiseptic hand wash to thoroughly wash your hands after having contact with respiratory secretions.
Avoid sharing toothbrushes, and do not allow your toothbrush and another person's to have contact in the bathroom.
If you or a family member has a cold or contracts the flu, throw out the old toothbrushes and get new ones. 
[Updated November 2009]
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