Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is important for maintaining good dental health. But did you know that good brushing hygiene is also dependent on how you maintain and store your toothbrush?
It is important to store your toothbrush in an upright position so that it can more easily dry out quickly. It is also desirable to store your toothbrush in a dry location with a steady airflow, so avoid placing your toothbrush flat or in an airtight cover. You should also keep your toothbrush as far away from the toilet as possible, because airborne particles could settle on your toothbrush.
It is also good practice to wash your toothbrush on a regular basis to maintain its cleanliness. You should rinse the brush and soak it in antibacterial mouthwash to kill bacteria. Another option is to run your toothbrush through the dishwasher. Washing your toothbrush is also important when you first purchase a new toothbrush, as the packaging is not sterile and bacteria may already exist on the toothbrush. If you are sick, it is especially important to thoroughly sanitize the toothbrush between uses and recommended to use a new toothbrush after the illness is past.
Another habit to avoid is sharing a toothbrush with anyone else, including family members. This practice fosters the transfer of bacteria that can be harmful, such as bacteria that can cause tooth decay.
Your toothbrush won’t be completely sterile, but it is important to take proper care to keep your toothbrush as hygienic as possible. If you would like to learn more about proper brushing and toothbrush storing techniques or have any questions, we invite you to contact our office today.
