Keeping Your Toothbrush Clean

You may apply toothpaste to them every day, but that doesn’t mean that your toothbrush is clean. It collects a large amount of bacteria, and can also collect other things from the bathroom environment. So, is a quick rinse after brushing sufficient enough to wash this all away?

There are various issues that can come from not maintaining a clean toothbrush. One of the major issues that can be encountered is bacterial growth. Bacteria thrives from darkness, warmth and moisture. This means that you should avoid all three when storing your toothbrush, so as to not create a bacterial breeding ground. Ensure that your toothbrush is kept in a holder that allows it to be air dried, and does not come in contact with other toothbrushes. Make sure that you avoid this by regularly cleaning your brush.

Keeping It Clean

There are a few things that you can do to make sure that your toothbrush is kept squeaky clean, and able to help you on maintaining your oral hygiene.

For many of us, the most effort we go to when cleaning our toothbrushes is a quick dip into a stream of water after brushing. The problem with this is that you may not be adequately cleaning the brush.

• The best way to clean a brush is by washing it thoroughly under warm or hot water. This will ensure that any debris left over will be removed from the bristles. Hot water also helps to kill off remaining bacteria from the brush.
• Another way to ensure that you are using a clean toothbrush is by keeping note of how it looks. If you notice that there is any type of discolouration, stains, frayed bristles or build up, then it may just be best to get a new toothbrush.
• Make sure that if you get any type of oral infection that you replace your toothbrush. This will prevent the bacteria from the infection getting transferred straight back into your mouth.
• Do not share toothbrushes with your friends or family. Even if you forgot yours.

The last and final tip is that if you’re in doubt, then just throw it out. If you know that it has been more than 3 months since you had replaced it, or you can’t remember the last time you had a new toothbrush, then it’s time to replace it. Make sure that you are giving yourself the best opportunity to maintain your oral hygiene.