How to take care of your toothbrush
You might be thinking “do I really need to take care of my toothbrush?”… It’s something we use every day without much thought and a ‘toothbrush care routine’ probably isn’t something that crosses your mind regularly.
But just take a moment to think about it. Do you really want to be putting something in your mouth every day that hasn’t been well cared for? We’ve put together a few of our top tips on looking after your toothbrush, to keep it in good condition and able to clean your teeth effectively!
Rinse with water
After each use, rinse your toothbrush thoroughly with tap water to get rid of any remaining toothpaste and saliva. This will keep your toothbrush clean and minimise any germs left on the bristles after brushing.
Store upright to dry
Once you’ve finished brushing your teeth, pop your toothbrush in a cup or holder so it can air dry naturally, in an upright position. Avoid laying your toothbrush on the side of the sink, for example, as the bristles will lie in a pool of water and won’t dry properly.
Don’t keep your toothbrush covered, or store it in a closed container. This will prevent the toothbrush air drying, and will encourage the growth of microorganisms and bacteria.
Replace regularly
Your toothbrush should be replaced every three to four months, or as soon as you notice the bristles beginning to fray. Not replacing your toothbrush regularly will allow bacteria more time to grow, plus as the bristles fray they will become less effective at cleaning your teeth.
If you use an electric toothbrush, don’t forget to change the brush head just as regularly as you would change a manual toothbrush.
Don’t share
Make sure each person in your household has their own toothbrush, and never share between more than one person. This helps to spread microorganisms and bodily fluid, putting you at risk of infection. It can even spread the bacteria that causes tooth decay.
Looking for more dental care tips? Pop in to see our Edinburgh dentists for a check up, and we’d be happy to answer any questions you have! Give us a call on 0131 556 2776 to book your next appointment at New Town Dental Care.