Have you ever considered if you’re doing everything you can to protect your teeth and gums against oral bacteria and decay. Sure, you brush, floss, and get regular dental checkups. But, have you taken every precaution you can against germs?

Prevent Toothbrush Contamination

Your mouth is home to a wide variety of good and bad microorganisms. When you brush your teeth, toothpaste, germs, and debris easily transfer to your toothbrush. That’s why it’s important to take these steps to prevent toothbrush contamination:

• Don’t share your toothbrush with anyone
• Rinse and air dry your toothbrush thoroughly after brushing
• Store your toothbrush in an upright position
• Don’t cover your toothbrush or store it in a closed container
• Avoid cross-contamination by keeping all toothbrushes in your home from touching

Additionally, don’t forget to replace your toothbrush when the bristles become worn, usually every three to four months. Ask your Century City cosmetic dentist if you have any questions about toothbrush care.

Safeguard Your Mouthguard

If you wear a mouthguard because you play sports or grind your teeth while your sleep, consider whether you are taking the right steps to protect your mouth against germs. That means more than rinsing your mouthguard with water. Specifically, the American Dental Association suggests:

• Rinse your mouthguard or brush it with toothpaste before and after use
• Occasionally use cool, soapy water to clean your mouthguard
• Store and carry your mouthguard in a sturdy, vented container
• Protect your mouthguard against the sun and hot water (i.e. don’t put it in a dishwasher to clean it)
• Monitor your mouthguard for wear and replace if necessary

Keeping your mouth guard clean should be part of your daily routine to keep microorganisms from finding a home on it. Talk to your Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist if you play sports or believe you have bruxism.

Keep Your Dentures Kissing Fresh

Anyone who wears dentures likely already knows the importance of keeping them clean. Good denture care helps fight against germs as well as stains. Here’s what the Mayo Clinic suggests denture wearers do to properly care for their dentures:

• Remove and rinse dentures after you eat to eliminate debris
• Carefully clean your dentures daily by brushing them with a nonabrasive denture cleaner
• Thoroughly clean your mouth with a soft toothbrush or clean gauze pad
• Soak dentures overnight using a mild denture-soaking solution
• Rinse dentures before placing them in your mouth
• Avoid using abrasives, whitening or bleaching products, and hot or boiling water on your dentures

Additionally, be sure to visit your Century City cosmetic dentist for regular checkups and cleanings, and be sure to tell your dentist promptly about any problems you may have with your dentures.

Protect your mouth from unnecessary contamination. Learn to care for the tools that help give you a great smile.