Most people understand the importance of cleaning their teeth, but did you know it is just as important to keep your toothbrush clean? Your toothbrush can act as a breeding ground for germs and bacteria, especially if you don’t clean it properly. The average toothbrush can hold as much as 10 million bacteria, including dangerous specimen like E. Coli and Staph. In order to maintain your oral hygiene, check out these toothbrush cleaning tips from Clinton Dental Center.
How To Store Your Toothbrush
Your toothbrush should always be stored in an upright holder, far away from the toilet, sink, or other source of frequent germs. Make sure the bristles are up in the air, not down in the bottom of the container. If you choose to put a cap on the end of your toothbrush, make sure it is one that allows for proper ventilation. Otherwise, your toothbrush will remain dirty no matter how it is stored.
Rinsing And Cleaning Your Toothbrush
After using your toothbrush, make sure you rinse it out thoroughly. Make sure you get all the toothpaste out from between the base of the bristles, which can pile up and crust over time. Most toothpastes will have natural cleaning solutions in them, but you can still use a toothbrush cleaner as a backup option. This will act as a detergent for your toothbrush, getting it ready for your next brushing session.
Signs It Is Time To Replace Your Toothbrush
You should replace your toothbrush once every six months or so. If you notice that the bristles are frayed and frazzled, you may want to replace it earlier than that. Once the bristles get out of hand, they have a hard time getting in between your teeth to clean them properly. If you are sick, you should replace your toothbrush anyway to avoid re-contaminating your mouth the next time you brush.
If you use an electronic toothbrush or one with a removable head, you will simply need to replace the bristled end of the brush. The only reason you will need to replace the rest of the body is if it stops working the way it is supposed to. Keep a manual toothbrush on hand as a backup, just in case your other one stops working. Then when it comes time to swap for a new model, you will be fully prepared.
Time your toothbrush replacements around your dental cleanings so you never forget to switch brushes. If you come in every six months like clockwork, you will have a fantastic smile well into the future.
