You probably only use your toothbrush twice a day. The rest of the day, it probably doesn’t even cross your mind. And why should it? It has one job to do, and as long as that job gets done, no harm no foul, right? The truth is that even though your toothbrush doesn’t need a tune-up or a software update, it does need a little maintenance to keep it in good working order.
If you tend to have long-term relationships with your toothbrush, it may be time to say goodbye. You should never keep your toothbrush more than three months. If the bristles are worn or flattened, or if they are drooping like the branches of a palm tree, it is time to get a new one. Kids tend to brush with a little more energy than adults and their toothbrushes may need to be replaced more often.
To clean your toothbrush, all you need to do is rinse it until it is free of debris. Putting your toothbrush in the microwave, dishwasher, or boiling water can damage the bristles.
You should store your toothbrush upright, and in a place where the air can dry it. If you cover your toothbrush or place it in a drawer or your medicine cabinet, bacteria and even mold can breed in the bristles. Toothbrushes should be stored away from one another to avoid cross-contamination of bacteria from one person to another. If someone in your household gets sick they should get a new toothbrush when they recover, and you may want to consider buying disposable toothbrushes to use in case of illness.
If you have questions about oral hygiene, you have a problem that needs to be addressed, or if it is just time for your regular cleaning and exam, our dentist, Dr. Letitia M. Williams will be happy to visit with you. If you live in the Union Springs, Alabama area and would like to make an appointment at Letitia M. Williams, DDS, LLC, call 334.377.3778 today.