How do you take care of your teeth? Easy! Good brushing and flossing habits. How do you take care of your toothbrush? Not as many people know the answer to this question. But it’s important to take care of your toothbrush, so your toothbrush can take care of your teeth! Learn how you can ensure your toothbrush is up to the task in this week’s blog.
Taking Care of Your Toothbrush
There are lots of microorganisms and bacteria in your mouth. When you brush your teeth, they get on your toothbrush. Most of them are harmless, but they can live on your toothbrush for weeks. This means if you have the flu, for example, that flu virus is living on your toothbrush, and you’re putting it back into your body every time you brush.
In addition, your toothbrush really isn’t meant to last more than a few months. The bristles slowly lose their resiliency, which makes them less effective at doing their job. Let’s talk about how to know when to get rid of your brush, and how to keep it clean while you’re using it.
Cleaning Your Toothbrush
- Always rinse the brush with water to remove debris. You can also soak it in mouthwash, which will kill bacteria.
- For a deeper clean, look for a dedicated toothbrush sanitizer.
- When you’re finished brushing, store the brush upright in a rack or cup. Find a brush cover that lets air circulate so the brush can dry, but make sure it’s not totally sealed. This can allow the brush to retain moisture, which, promotes bacteria growth.
How Long to Keep Your Brush
- A general rule of thumb is to use a brush for 3 months. If it’s showing signs of wear before then, then go ahead and replace it now. Watch for fraying bristles, which are a sure sign of wear. Many brushes also have a color code system where some of the bristles start out completely blue and then lose their color over time. If these bristles have lost their color, it’s time to replace.
- If you’re sick, replace your brush after you’ve recovered from your illness.
- Don’t share a toothbrush with anyone. It may contain bacteria or viruses that can make you sick.
To learn more about ways you can improve your dental health, make an appointment with Olney Dental today. You can reach us at (301) 250-1057 or, you can schedule an appointment online.You can also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, and YouTube.