A good oral care routine consists of a few different steps. You’ve been brushing your teeth with the perfect technique, taking the time to floss your teeth in all the hard-to-reach places, you’ve even got the right mouthwash to give you that clean, fresh finish.
But have you ever considered whether you care for your most important dental care tool? In this blog, King Street Dental discusses the importance of caring for your toothbrush and how to get the best out of it.
Do Not Use Too Much Pressure While Brushing
To brush your teeth effectively, we recommend using just enough pressure to dislodge plaque and food debris off your teeth. Pressing the brush too hard against your teeth, especially if you use a hard brush, can damage tooth enamel and damage to gums. Too much pressure can also damage the bristles of your brush, causing them to fray and become less effective.
Rinse Your Toothbrush Properly After Use
Your toothbrush is the tool responsible for dislodging and removing germs that accumulate in your mouth. It picks up food debris, bacteria and other materials that become embedded in the bristles. King Street Dental recommends taking the time to clean your brush under warm water, rubbing the bristles firmly with a clean finger to remove all unwanted particles.
Keep Your Toothbrush Dry
Moisture on your toothbrush can encourage bacterial growth. An unclean, permanently moist toothbrush can itself become a breeding ground for bacteria and lead to serious dental issues over time.
After use, shake off excess water and place your brush in a vertical toothbrush holder. This allows excess moisture to flow away and keeping the brush exposed to air allows it to dry faster.
Do Not Share Your Toothbrush with Others
This seems like an obvious one, but no matter the situation, sharing a toothbrush can greatly increase the spread of bad bacteria. Your toothbrush is for your mouth only!
Wash Your Hands Before You Brush
Having a clean, well-maintained brush won’t make a difference if you handle it with hands that have been touching other surfaces all day. Use an antibacterial soap to wash your hands to give yourself a solid layer of extra protection.
Cover your Toothbrush When you Travel
Before traveling, purchase a toothbrush cover, or store your brush in an aerated toiletry bag to keep it away from dust, toxic substances and germs. Take extra care to dry your brush when you are traveling as lack of air during storage can cause bacterial growth.
Replace Your Toothbrush When Required
Over time, bristles can wear down or fray, leading to ineffective cleaning. Always remember to replace your toothbrush every three to four months.
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Get the best out of your oral health routine by using our toothbrush maintenance tips. For additional information on dental hygiene, contact King Street Dental, and don’t forget to book an appointment with us!