When was the last time you took a good look at your toothbrush? Even though we use it twice a day, most of us don’t think about the condition of this common cleaning device. However, the American Dental Association indicates that bacteria could be growing inside those bristles if you are not intentional about how you store and clean your toothbrush. Read on as your Stephens City dentist goes over the best ways to disinfect your toothbrush and protect your happy, healthy smile!
What Happens if I Don’t Keep My Toothbrush Clean?
Every mouth is naturally full of bacteria. Brushing your teeth with fluoridated toothpaste helps keep them in check and your mouth healthy. However, some of that bacteria stays on your toothbrush even after you rinse it off. These microbial organisms can live on the surface of the bristles for weeks.
Thankfully, the ADA reports that there’s not enough evidence to support the idea that this bacterium can cause serious health concerns. However, bacteria thrive in warm, damp, and dark environments, which could be your toothbrush if you keep it in a cabinet or use a toothbrush cover. While your immune system should be able to combat these microorganisms easily, some dental experts say the abundance of bacteria could lead to infection if you have an injury or sore in your mouth.
How Should I Care for My Toothbrush?
Hopefully, you already rinse your toothbrush off after every use. To keep it in great shape, you should also:
- Store it in an upright position to air dry.
- Avoid contact with other toothbrushes.
- Don’t use a toothbrush cover or keep it in a small, contained space.
How Do I Disinfect My Toothbrush?
Disinfecting your toothbrush can be especially helpful after recovering from a cold or the flu. You can clean away these germs by:
- Swirling the toothbrush bristles in antibacterial mouthwash for 30 seconds.
- Soaking the bristles in vinegar overnight once a week.
- Dissolving two teaspoons of baking soda in a cup of water and soaking the bristles in the solution.
Remember, even if you continue to disinfect your toothbrush, it should be replaced every 3-4 months or sooner if the bristles become frayed. Toothbrushing is a solid foundation for any great dental care routine, so it’s important that your tool is up to the task of cleaning your smile well!
About the Author
Dr. Thomas A. Gromling has been helping the smiles of Stephens City, VA stay happy and healthy for nearly 40 years now. To stay current with the most advanced dental technology and techniques, he has attended several prestigious institutes over the years, including the L.D. Pankey Institute, the Misch Implant Institute, and the Dawson Academy. However, he knows that great oral health starts at home, so he always takes the time to go over the best ways to care for your smile in your daily life. If you have more questions about keeping your toothbrush clean, feel free to contact him via his website or at (540) 869-4377.