Your Century City cosmetic dentist has repeatedly shared with you the basics of good oral hygiene. Proper flossing and brushing along with regular visits to your dentist are vital to a healthy smile. However, there’s more to tooth and gum care than just your mouth.
Your Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist wants you to know that toothbrush care is an often forgotten step in the oral hygiene process. To ensure your oral hygiene is thorough, here are five tips for proper toothbrush care.
Clean and Dry Toothbrushes after Each Use
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it isn’t necessary to use dishwashers or microwaves to disinfect toothbrushes. In fact, these measures may damage the toothbrush or lead to contamination if you use the same disinfectant for multiple uses. It is important, however, to rinse your toothbrush thoroughly.
The easiest way to clean it is to run the bristles under tap water and rub your thumb over it to be sure to remove particles and bacteria. Shake the bristles dry and wipe down the handle before storing it away in an upright position.
Store Toothbrushes in Open Air
Your Century City cosmetic dentist doesn’t have to remind you that there are a ton of bacteria in your mouth, many of which are anaerobic. Anaerobic bacteria live in an environment with very little oxygen. Exposure to air kills them.
Therefore, one of the best things you can do is make sure your toothbrush receives plenty of ventilation. Don’t store it in a closed container where it is subject to humidity and moisture.
Replace Toothbrushes Regularly
Your Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist recently read that 75 percent of people admit they don’t replace their toothbrushes as often as they should. However, studies indicate that over time toothbrushes lose their effectiveness in removing plaque from teeth and gums as bristles wear out and germs collect.
Therefore, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months, sooner if the bristles fray.
Never Share Toothbrushes
You may think that allowing your spouse to use your toothbrush occasionally is no big deal. However, the germs from someone else’s mouth, even a family member, can be harmful to you. Sharing a toothbrush increases your risk for infections and illness.
Your Century City cosmetic dentist recommends you protect yourself and your family members by keeping spare toothbrushes on hand. Having fresh, unopened toothbrushes available at all times means you’ll never have to worry.