Your toothbrush is one of your best weapons in the ongoing fight against gum disease.
Your toothbrush is one of your best weapons in the ongoing fight against gum disease. You’ve got to take proper care of it, though. At some point, the bristles on the toothbrush will begin to wear down. Here are some tips on how to do it.
Be Sure to Rinse It Off
The first piece of advice we have for you is to rinse off the toothbrush. Do it once you’re done, and sometimes before you get started, too. It all depends on your habits. You can get rid of toothpaste residue, leftover saliva, and indeed, germs and bacteria that are still there even if you can’t see them. Using warm water is better than cold water, but either way, tap water is just fine. Don’t forget to rinse or wipe down the handle of the toothbrush too.
Stand It Up
Letting your toothbrush air dry will also ensure it lasts longer. If you put a cap or put it in a container, it will let moisture collect, which although it sounds like a good thing, it isn’t. While these measures are great for traveling, you shouldn’t need to use them while you are at home. At the same time, you will want to be sure that you can keep it away from other toothbrushes, especially if your family shares the same bathroom with you that you use to get ready.
Change the Brush
It’s normal to get sick. After you’ve been sick (even if it’s just a cold) be sure to change your toothbrush once you’re no longer sick. This can prevent cross-contamination and keep you from getting sick again. Also, this is a good place to stop and remind you to keep your brush clear of the toilet so that flushing the toilet doesn’t send invisible germs flying everywhere.
Don’t Be Too Forceful
It’s tempting to brush too forcefully. Doing this can wear the fibers down and do more harm than good to your teeth and gums. The enamel is meant to protect against decay, and you don’t want to wear them down too soon.
Wash Your Hands Once Done
The germs that collect on your hands can easily transfer to your toothbrush and your mouth at large. Use antibacterial soap to wash your hands before you get started and after you are done.
KEEP YOUR MOUTH HAPPY WITH ANNAPOLIS DENTAL CARE!
Whether it’s a regular check-up you need or a tooth extracted, Annapolis Dental Care has the expertise and compassion to work with you on improving your oral health. Your comfort and health are our top priorities, and so we go above and beyond to make our patients happy and give them the highest quality care. To set up an appointment today, please give us a call at 410-571-5014 or visit us online. For more oral health tips for you and your family, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube! We are always looking for new patients, so if you live in Arnold, Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, MD, come on down!