Everyone knows that they have to brush their teeth regularly, but did you know that your toothbrush also needs its own TLC? Don’t worry, you don’t have to buy a separate toothbrush to brush your toothbrush. Nor, thankfully, do you have to floss your toothbrush. But it still needs care. Think of it this way: the better you care for your brush, the better it can take care of you.
It’s actually very simple to take care of your toothbrush, but unfortunately most people aren’t aware of what to do for them. Ask any dentist, and they’d likely tell you that most of their patients are in the dark about this issue. Every day, a world full of sad toothbrushes are put to work 2 or 3 times, and don’t get any care in return. Thank your bristly friend with these helpful tips.
Rinse It
Think of your toothbrush after a brushing session like feet that have just been on the beach: they’re dirty and wet. So do the same thing you’d do to sandy feet and give your toothbrush a cleansing rinse. Food particles, bacteria, and other sludge can build up on your toothbrush and make it pretty disgusting. Wash your hands, then run your toothbrush under warm, clean water. Gently run your fingers through the bristles to dislodge all those chia seeds you’ve been eating.
Dry It
What comes next after rinsing off your sandy feet? You dry them (hopefully). The same goes for your toothbrush. Keeping it dry prevents mildew and bacteria from thriving on the bristles, head, and handle. Shake off excess water, then place your toothbrush in a vertical toothbrush holder. Preferably, use a simple ring-shaped holder that keeps most of the toothbrush exposed to open air. Only use a case or cover when you’re travelling.
Prevent Gunk
Keep in mind that many different…activities…go on in your bathroom. Flush the toilet with the lid closed and store your toothbrush as far away from the toilet as possible. This prevents gross toilet aerosol from contacting your toothbrush.
Also, always brush with clean hands. Brushing your teeth may seem like a dirty practice–and it is–but you should avoid getting dirty hand residue onto the toothbrush handle as well.
Finally, don’t share your toothbrush with anyone. If you don’t know this, even the best dentist can’t help you.
Good Brushing Practices
One of the best ways to take care of your toothbrush is to use it appropriately. Believe it or not, bad brushing habits can injure your toothbrush and even cut its life span short. Follow your dentist’s recommendations on how to brush appropriately. Here’s a reminder on how to brush properly.
Brush in soft, gentle circles, as if you’re massaging your teeth. Scrubbing your teeth like you’re trying to get a stain out of your jeans doesn’t help, and in fact, this can actually damage your tooth enamel. If your toothbrush bristles look frayed or look like they’re balding, then you’re brushing too fast or too hard.
Last but not least, know when it’s time to say goodbye. You must throw out Mr. Toothbrush and replace him about every 4 months. A new toothbrush is always better and healthier than living with the same old thing.
For more tips on how to care for your toothbrush, visit a dentist in Aliso Viejo, CA. And if you only want to see the best local dentist, always choose Turner Dental Care.
