Dental hygiene requires more than regular brushing and
flossing the teeth. Most people I know change their toothbrush on some type of
schedule because the practice has been ingrained since childhood.
Bacteria and other microbes unseen by the human eye hang out
on the bristles. That isn’t surprising as they share the same air and
environment we live in. The American
Dental Association is quick to assure us that there isn’t enough evidence that
growth on a toothbrush will result in “specific adverse oral or systemic health
effects.”
That’s good news, and there’s more! Proper care of your
toothbrush removes bacteria and retains its brushing power.
1.Keep your toothbrush in the open. Bacteria and other
microorganisms thrive without light and fresh air. If it’s undercover during
travel, take it out once you arrive at your destination.
2. Use tap water to rinse the brush after every use. Check to
be sure all the toothpaste is off the bristles.
3. Have a spot for each toothbrush to dry standing straight.
Keep brushes separate.
Most of us are in the habit of changing toothbrushes every 3
months or so, or after being sick. As a mom, I know how important it is to
replace younger kids’ toothbrushes more often than that. The soft bristles wear
down quickly.
Change the brush every two months for better brushing. Select the youngster’s favorite color, character or design to encourage them to keep brushing.
What kind of toothbrush makes your smile bright?
This is so true. Toothbrushes are breeding grounds for all kinds of funk if you're not careful.
ReplyDeleteOh yes. Tooth brushes can be so bad. My sister is a dental hygienist and I've heard tons of stories. We replace ours often! - - jeanine
ReplyDeleteMy toothbrush is about to need a replacement! I try to do every 2 months although sometimes I forget and do 3.
ReplyDeleteI replace ours every month just because it seems like such an easy, inexpensive thing to do.
ReplyDeleteWe definitely need to replace toothbrushes soon! Thanks for the good information.
ReplyDeleteI am great about toothbrush care. I do appreciate the tips though, they're good to remember to pass onto the kids...instead of just thinking they already know by default what to do. ;)
ReplyDeleteJust talking about germs on my toothbrush gross me out! I need a new toothbrush!
ReplyDeleteI love the feel of a new toothbrush. I have been doing a better job about changing out my toothbrushes lately.
ReplyDeleteI am a stickler for clean teeth and a clean toothbrush! I change mine very often, maybe more than every two months!
ReplyDeleteWe keep our toothbrushes in a holder by the sink, so they are out to keep bacteria away. We also make sure to replace them regularly!
ReplyDeleteAgreed! I rinse mine with mouthwash too just for good measure.
ReplyDeleteYes toothbrushes are a big pet peeve of mine. I ended up buying ones that contain silver in the head which helps as a natural disinfectant. Funny thing is, since doing that, our dentist has noticed a difference.
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