Take Care of Your Toothbrush

Our oral hygiene routine may involve a series of steps. This may involve brushing and flossing your teeth daily, using mouthwash for fresh breath, and getting rid of the bacteria. Another essential step is to visit your dentist in Orange County twice a year for a routine dental checkup. Just like you care for your teeth, the tools you use to look after your oral health need proper care. 

A toothbrush is one of the most used oral hygiene tools, so let's take a look at how to clean it.  

1. No rush, no pressure!

If you are putting a lot of pressure to scrub the plaque off your teeth, this might harm your tooth enamel and toothbrush. Deteriorating enamel may make your teeth are more susceptible to damage, stains, and corrosion. On the other hand, too much force on the toothbrush can make bristles fray, losing their effectiveness.

2. Rinse Your Toothbrush Well

The toothbrush comes in contact with the germs, bacteria, and other debris in your mouth. Over time, toothpaste may start settling below the bristles.

So, after brushing your teeth, do rinse off your toothbrush using warm, running water. Wash your hands before using your fingers to gently rub the bristles to clean anything stuck between them.

3. Keep Your Toothbrush Dry

It is important to keep your toothbrush dry, as the moisture that stays on them promotes bacteria growth. Using a bacteria-ridden toothbrush can put your oral health at risk of developing dental problems. After rinsing your toothbrush, make sure to shake off any excess water.

4. Placing Your Toothbrush Vertically

Keep your toothbrush vertically upright instead of just leaving it flat on the sink. It would be better if you place it on a toothbrush holder where both the top and bottom of the brush stay exposed, helping it to dry properly.

5. Never Share Your Toothbrush With Anyone

This is something everyone knows now! No matter what circumstances, don't ever let anyone else your toothbrush. Sharing toothbrushes puts a high risk of spreading bacteria and germs, which increases the chances of developing dental issues.

6. Replace Your Toothbrush Often

Yous should always replace your toothbrush once every three or four months. When the bristles go fray, they become quite ineffective at cleaning. Make it in your calendar when you need a new toothbrush and replace its head (for electric toothbrushes) or the toothbrush wholly!

If you have any questions, book an appointment with our cosmetic dentist in Orange County at Vida Dentistry at 25270 Marguerite Pkwy Suite C, Mission Viejo, CA 92692, or by calling us at (949) 209-8889.