For many of us, it’s tough enough dedicating adequate time
in our busy days to properly brushing and flossing our teeth. With
such limited time, that attention might not always extend to how well you care
for your toothbrush when you’re not using it. Unfortunately, improper care can
render your toothbrush not only ineffective, but a liability to your dental
health, increasing your risk of tooth damage and diseases stemming from poor hygiene.
When You’re Not Paying Attention
Most personal bathrooms include a toothbrush holder that
keeps the occupants’ toothbrushes off of the counter, usually in an up-right position.
Perhaps without realizing it, many people place their toothbrush holders dangerously
close to the toilet, where countless colonies
of germs congregate. If you prefer, you might store your toothbrush in its
own personal holder, complete with a cap to conceal the brush entirely. However,
storing a wet toothbrush in a concealed environment can facilitate the growth
and accumulation of various bacteria and other microorganisms.
Toothbrush Care Techniques
·
After brushing your teeth, rinse the bristles
thoroughly, passing a clean thumb or finger over them to dislodge food and
bacterial particles.
·
Shake the brush and bristles, then place it in a
holder as far from the toilet and bath tub as possible.
·
If you use an enclosed container, try to keep
the cap slightly dislodged to allow the brush to air dry.
·
Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly before using
it, as well, to make sure you don’t transfer unwanted microorganisms to your
mouth.
·
Once you notice that your bristles are frayed,
change your toothbrush for a new one. If three months pass and the bristles
still seem strong, change it anyway to be on the safe side.
ABOUT YOUR GRAND PRAIRIE DENTIST
Dr. Quinn Smith is a well-respected and highly experienced
general, restorative, and family dentist in Grand Prairie, TX. He takes a
patient-first approach that starts from the moment patients enter our Pecan Tree Dental office, and he offers a
three-year guarantee on all dental work that he performs. Whether you and your
family are new or returning patients, you can schedule a consultation or your
next appointment with Dr. Smith by contacting
us at (972) 262-5111.
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