You brush twice a day and floss regularly. Good for you! But if you’re using an old toothbrush, all that brushing could be a waste of time. The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months, depending on how vigorously you brush.
Research suggests that your brush can harbor more than 10 million germs and bacteria. And that’s not the only reason replacing your toothbrush periodically is a must. Another tell-tale sign that you need a new toothbrush is splayed bristles. If your toothbrush bristles are pointing in different directions, toss it. It isn’t doing much in the way of cleaning your teeth when the bristles aren’t accurately connecting with the surface of your teeth.
Once you’ve gotten a new brush, it’s important for you to take care of it. Here’s how:
• Don’t brush with too much gusto. Don’t press too hard or scrub vigorously when you brush. Instead brush gently, taking care to do so around your gums and on your tongue, as well. The idea of brushing should be to clean your teeth, not damage them.
• A clean toothbrush equals a clean mouth. To keep your toothbrush extra clean, soak it rubbing alcohol to kill germs and rinse it thoroughly. Or, if you prefer, you can use an antiseptic mouthwash to soak your brush.
• Store it the right way. It’s best to store your toothbrush in an upright position, making sure it isn’t touching other brushes.
• Keep it sanitized. Consider dipping your toothbrush in boiling water for up to 10 seconds to kill germs. Just don’t put it in the microwave or dishwasher, which can damage it.
A crucial part of a healthy mouth is also visiting your dentist twice a year. He or she can recommend the toothbrush that’s right for you, as well as give you brushing techniques to ensure you’re doing everything you can to protect your pearly whites.
Do you want to learn more about which toothbrush is right for you? Call and speak to our New Patient Coordinator at 281.265.7645 for more information, or click here to contact us.
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