Your toothbrush is your mouth’s best friend for maintaining oral hygiene, and a healthy mouth relies on clean teeth and gums. 

When you visit the dentist, you learn how to properly brush and floss your teeth, how often to do it, and when you need dental checkups. Your dentist most likely has iterated the importance of caring for your toothbrush, but we’re here to provide a deeper understanding so you can keep your smile pearly white. 

Plaque, bacteria, blood, saliva, and food particles are removed from the teeth by toothbrushes. As a result, your toothbrush is at high risk of contamination.

How Should I Care for My Toothbrush? 

There is no doubt that the mouth is a breeding ground for millions of germs. Plaque, bacteria, blood, saliva, and food particles are removed from the teeth by toothbrushes. As a result, your toothbrush is at high risk of contamination.

Taking the proper precautions and caring for your toothbrush will leave your mouth healthier and your smile brighter. 

Here are six ways to take care of your toothbrush: 

• Don’t apply too much pressure when brushing. Not only is this extremely bad for your teeth and gums, but it can destroy your toothbrush quickly. It causes the bristles to misshape and bend, which leads to a less clean mouth. 
• Never share toothbrushes. Toothbrushes can contain germs even after rinsing, which could raise the risk of infection, especially for those immunocompromised. 

• Rinse your toothbrush after using it. Run your toothbrush under warm tap water to remove any extra toothpaste or bacteria before you put it away. This will help prevent bacteria from regrowing and reentering your mouth the next time you brush. 

• Always air dry upright. Any damp objects are sanctuaries for bacteria. Avoid mold by air drying your toothbrush and setting it upright so it drains properly and dries more quickly. 

• Replace every three to four months. Bacteria builds up quickly. Avoid excessive exposure by taking good care of your toothbrush. 

• Avoid covering toothbrushes. Storing them in closed containers is just asking for bacteria. Let them breathe! 

Taking the proper precautions and caring for your toothbrush will leave your mouth healthier and your smile brighter. 

Talk Toothbrushes with Asheville Dental 

The Asheville Dental team is poised to give you and your family a safe and efficient experience. That also means providing tools and resources to maintain a healthy mouth. Next time your dentist gives you a toothbrush, show off your knowledge and ask them why it’s one they recommend. 

Contact us today, and let’s give you the smile you deserve.