How To Take Care Of Your Toothbrush
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Advertisers and North Delta dentists tell us that we should be using this toothpaste or a certain mouthwash is the way to take care of your teeth. While these products have a place in your oral care routine you’ll be wasting your money if your toothbrush in not properly cared for. It is the most important tool in your oral care toolbox.
You may have been led to believe that the best way to keep germs off a toothbrush is to buy a toothbrush cap for it but this is misinformation. In fact the best breeding ground for germs is in a moist environment which is exactly what you create by placing a cap on a toothbrush. The best way to store your toothbrush is simple: upright and uncapped. This will allow it to air dry between uses just be sure to rinse it well with tap water before storing it away.
When storing it away whether that’s in a cup or toothbrush holder you want to be certain it doesn’t come into contact with anyone else’s toothbrush. One other obvious point is to never share a toothbrush with someone, and no running it under hot water is not a good way to kill the germs. A person’s toothbrush has millions of germs that are unseen to the naked eye, so yes it’s a gross idea to share. There’s also the viruses or bacteria from an ill person’s mouth ( so a cold or the flu ) that can survive for weeks and an easy way to spread infections. You may even consider tossing and replacing your own toothbrush after any recent illnesses to avoid reinfection.
Lastly be sure to replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months, this is just a guideline, some people will need to replace them more often ( think small children who love to chew and suck on them ) Anytime you notice the bristles are frayed or worn it’s a sign it needs replacing, some toothbrushes on the market now even have “ indicator bristles “ which fade in color to let you know it needs replacing.
The tips listed above can help you take good care of your toothbrush and allows you to take the best care of your teeth.
Regular visits to your dentist are essential to good oral health, contact Surdel Dental Centre to book an appointment now.
