One of the useful tools that have to take care of your teeth is our toothbrush. Even though many of us don’t understand the importance of taking good care of our toothbrushes, it is important for me as a dentist to address this issue because I believe that people would understand the necessity of maintaining and protecting our toothbrushes in order to have healthy teeth. Here are some ways in which you can protect your mouth by taking good care of your toothbrush.
- Do not leave your toothbrush on the bathroom countertop.When the toilet is flushed airborne bacteria can travel up to six feet away landing on the countertop and on the toothbrush. Therefore toothbrushes should be stored in the medicine cabinet or in a drawer.
- Rinse the brush with clean tap water after using it and allow it to air dry and store it in the upright position.
- Do not place a cap on the toothbrush.Placing a cap on your toothbrush will enclose moisture and create greater amounts of bacteria which harvest microorganisms.
- Do not share your toothbrush.Sharing your toothbrush or accidentally using someone else’s toothbrush is the worst way to maintain good oral hygiene. A significant amount of germs get swapped when this occurs and can also happen if more than one toothbrush is stored in the same area.
- Replace your toothbrush on a regular basis.The ADA recommends replacing it every 3 to 4 months but should always be replaced once the bristles become frayed or worn even if it is sooner than this time frame.Children’s toothbrushes should be replaced more frequently since children are not aware of sanitary concerns. Everyone’s toothbrush must be replaced after having an episode of the flu or a cold. Not replacing the toothbrush leads to re-infection since the microbes remain present.
- Don’t forget to brush twice a day and floss at least once a day to maintain a clean mouth.
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