Toothbrush Care Tips From Murray Scholls Family Dental

Toothbrush Care Tips From Murray Scholls Family Dental

April 28, 2017

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We have all been told that brushing our teeth is one of the most important factors in good oral health, but did you know that taking care of the brush itself is also vital? Since your toothbrush is the key weapon for care at home against cavities and decay, proper care, replacement, and technique is crucial for having happy and healthy teeth.

See below for Murray Scholls Family Dental tips and tricks for caring for your toothbrush compiled from the American Dental Association and its Council on Scientific Affairs.

Rinse And Dry Properly

Proper rinsing of your toothbrush after use each time is vital to keeping the brush clean and it working properly. It is best to rinse your brush head with running tap water to effectively clean out bits of toothpaste or food particles. Then be sure to store your brush in an upright position, allowing air to circulate around it. This will help keep any microbes from growing on it, leaving it fresh and ready for your next use. If your family shares a bathroom, be sure to keep toothbrushes separate and not touching in order to avoid cross contamination.

Do Not Share A Brush

You should never, ever share a toothbrush with anyone else. Sharing brushes can result in trading bodily fluids and unwanted microorganisms between people. This can directly result in greater risks of diseases and infections for anyone who uses a common brush. You should be even more careful about using your own brush if you live with someone with an unhealthy or compromised immune system. 

Don’t Keep Brushes In Sealed Or Closed Places

It is best to limit any humid or damp environment for toothbrushes, like when you travel with a toothbrush in a case. You should never keep a brush in a closed or sealed place for very long, as it can allow microorganisms to grow. Make sure to air dry the brush after it has been in any sealed environment. 

Change Every Three Months

Changing your toothbrush at regular three-month intervals is recommended by most national dental organizations. You should also look for signs of the brush’s bristles being frayed or worn, and replace them if you see such signs. When brushes get older and shabby, they are not as good at cleaning the damaging plaque and bacteria from your mouth. If you have kids in the house, it is wise to check their brushes even more frequently, as they may wear quicker.  

A Few Warnings On What Not To Do

There are also a few basic rules of things never to do with your toothbrush. These include not trying to clean your brush with any liquid other than tap water and always only with your fingers. You should also avoid putting a brush in microwave, dishwasher, or under ultraviolet lights. All of these can damage your toothbrush and make in ineffective for its main purpose: cleaning your teeth!

At Murray Scholls Family Dental, we strive to be the best dentist Beaverton has, so we are always available for any tooth brushing or other questions. Please contact our office today to schedule your next appointment or cleaning.