One of your key allies in the fight against oral bacteria and plaque is your toothbrush, but for it to do its job, there are some crucial steps that must be followed. In addition to replacing your toothbrush every two to three months, your dentist in Dublin says there are ways to maintain your toothbrush while it’s in use. Keep reading to find out what preventive measures you need to implement, now!
Inspect Your Toothbrush Before and After Each Usage
Every time you use your toothbrush, you should perform a quick but careful inspection. Look for any discoloration, buildup or frayed bristles. These are definite indicators that your toothbrush needs to go.
Additionally, you should always take a look at your toothbrush after cleaning your teeth to make sure there are no chunks of toothpaste remaining. To prevent this, thoroughly rinse the bristles with hot water using your fingers.
Soak in Antibacterial Mouthwash
For added protection and peace-of-mind, you can soak your toothbrush in antibacterial mouthwash. The solution will help to kill lingering bacteria on the bristles.
You should keep in mind, though, that cleaning in this manner will wear down the bristles faster and require you to purchase a new toothbrush sooner than you may have expected.
You’ll let the toothbrush rest, head down, in a small cup of mouthwash for about two minutes after brushing. Then, rinse it off and let it dry in the upright position.
Carefully Boil It
While this isn’t typically recommended, boiling your toothbrush is a way to provide added reassurance that oral bacteria are kept at bay. The process starts with heating a pot of water. When it boils, turn the heat off and dip the toothbrush for only 30 seconds.
Denture Cleanser
An additional option is to use denture cleanser. Made from antimicrobial ingredients that target oral bacteria and plaque, denture cleanser provides a strong line of defense against tooth and gum decay.
If You’re Unsure, Toss It
While you’re aware of the basic rule of discarding your toothbrush after three months, you may sometimes forget how long you’ve had it. If you’re unsure how much time has transpired, take the safe route and discard it.
You should also toss your toothbrush if you’ve recently recovered from an illness. Using the same toothbrush could leave you vulnerable to reinfection.
Along with maintaining regular visits to your local dentist for checkups and cleanings, following these suggestions for the proper upkeep of your toothbrush can work wonders for your oral health. Not only will you have a nice-looking smile; you’ll know that your teeth and gums are strong and functional!
About the Author
Dr. Eric Buck earned his dental degree from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. Because he understands just how important the minor details are when it comes to maintaining excellent oral health, he encourages his clients to pay attention to every aspect of their dental care, including the maintenance of their toothbrush. Dr. Buck provides careful preventive dentistry at Distinctive Smiles, and he can be reached for more information or to schedule a visit through his website.