Scientists have identified more than 700 different specifies of oral bacteria. How much do you know about the germs in your mouth? Take this quiz and visit Dr. Locke to clean the harmful microbes out of your mouth.
1. True or False? A dog’s mouth is cleaner than a human’s.
2. Which is the best way to store your toothbrush to prevent bacterial growth?
(a) Upright and air-dry
(b) In a closed container
(c) On its side next to the sink
3. What is the best way to keep your mouth safe from outside germs?
(a) Using hand sanitizer
(b) Sharing personal items
(c) Proper oral hygiene
4. Which of the following surfaces can germs live on?
(a) Money
(b) Hands
(c) Countertops
(d) All of the above
5. Which of the following is NOT passed through kissing and sharing saliva?
(a) S. mutans or tooth decay
(b) Tooth stains
(c) Cold sores
6. True or False? If you pick up food off the floor within five seconds, it’s safe to eat.
Answers:
1. FALSE. It’s a common myth that a dog’s mouth is cleaner than a human’s, but animal mouths are also filled with tons of bad bacteria. The catch is that pet saliva is healthier for you than human saliva, because most of the bacteria in your pet’s mouth won’t cause much damage if they’re transferred to you.
2. A. It may seem that covering your brush will block out bacteria, but microbes thrive in moist, enclosed environments. Keep your toothbrush open to natural air to kill any bacteria living on it.
3. C. Keeping your mouth clean will decrease your risk of oral infections. While hand sanitizer can kill the bacteria on your hands before you put them in your mouth, brushing and flossing thoroughly and daily is the safest method.
4. D. You can’t see them, but germs are still there. Throughout the day, you come in contact with money and tables that other people have probably touched before you. The bacteria living on these surfaces will crawl onto your hands, and therefore likely into your mouth and body.
5. B. Tooth stains are caused by dark-colored foods and beverages and poor dental care. They are not contagious. On the other hand, tooth decay and cold sores can be passed from another person.
6. FALSE. As soon as food hits the floor, it becomes contaminated with germs and bacteria.
Visit Dr. Locke to keep your mouth free of harmful germs that could destroy your smile. Contact our dentist office in Waco, Texas, at (254) 776-4888 to request an appointment.