The Best Care For Your Toothbrush

A toothbrush is an oral hygiene tool made of abrasive material such as nylon, boar bristles, or synthetic bristles. The bristles help remove food particles and plaque from the teeth and gumline. A toothbrush is your first line of defense against cavities, so it’s important to keep it clean and healthy. The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months.

What are the consequences if we don’t care for our toothbrushes?

Brushing your teeth is important. However, the way you care for your toothbrush is equally as important.

If you don’t care for your toothbrush, you risk:

• Letting bacteria linger on the brush bristles.
• Only brushing the surface of the teeth and not getting at the plaque and buildup.
• Not caring for your toothbrush, which can cause bristles to break or fray.

Toothbrush Care Tips

• Replace your toothbrush regularly

The American Dental Association recommends that you replace your toothbrush every three to four months. If you begin to notice bleeding, your toothbrush may be harboring bacteria. That bacteria can infect your mouth and cause gum disease.

Replace your toothbrush regularly to avoid these problems. Replacing your toothbrush every few months is a small investment that can help you maintain better dental health.

• Rinse and store your toothbrush properly

Rinse out your toothbrush with water after brushing. You should also rinse your toothbrush head with water if you are using a powered or electric toothbrush. Store your toothbrush upright in an area where it can air dry. Bacteria grow on your toothbrush, so it’s important to rinse it thoroughly. If you do not properly rinse your toothbrush, it will accumulate more bacteria over time.

• Clean your toothbrush

You should clean your toothbrush at least once per week. Once a week, remove some toothpaste from your tube and squeeze the toothpaste onto a paper towel. Then, use the toothbrush to gently scrub the toothpaste into the bristles. This will remove any leftover debris that could irritate your mouth.

• Replace your toothbrush head

The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. Otherwise, the bristles become less effective over time.

• Clean your electic toothbrush 

1. Remove the head from your toothbrush.
2. Rinse the toothbrush head under warm water.
3. Brush the bristles gently back and forth on a clean towel or washcloth.

• Brush correctly

Do not brush hard, as it will fray the bristles of the brush and damage it.

For more information on how to care for your toothbrush, visit Ideal Smiles of Stamford at 86 Prospect St Suite 300, Stamford, CT 06901, or call (203) 359-2222 to schedule an appointment.