Tips for Taking Care of Your Toothbrush

We all use toothbrushes to care for our teeth, but what do we do with our toothbrushes? Our toothbrushes must stay in perfect condition so that they can do their jobs of keeping our teeth healthy. According to our skilled dentists at Varni Dental in San Jose, California, here are a few ​tips on toothbrush care.

• Rinse It 

When you're finished brushing, rinse your toothbrush with tap water to eliminate any leftover toothpaste, saliva, or bacteria. Warm water will loosen the bristles and allow you to remove more debris from your brush. Wipe off the brush's handle as well, because bacteria can accumulate there when saliva and water flow down the brush.

• Store It Upright

After you've finished rinsing your toothbrush, set it upright to dry. Putting a cap on it or storing it in a container allows moisture to stay, allowing bacteria to flourish and accumulate on the brush. A toothbrush cover or container, on the other hand, is great for travel because it protects the brush from dirt and dust within your luggage. However, before using the protective device, ensure that the bristles are dry. You may further reduce germ exposure by ensuring that it does not come into contact with any other toothbrushes and by keeping it several feet away from the toilet.

• Don't Brush Too Hard

Brushing more vigorously does not result in a cleaner mouth; in fact, it might harm the enamel that protects your teeth from disease. It also wears out the bristles on your toothbrush far faster than gentle brushing. You simply need to use little pressure to keep your teeth clean and your brush in good condition for the whole three- to four-month shelf life.

• Wash Your Hands

When you contact various surfaces during the day, your hands are exposed to a lot of germs. Bacteria can then spread to your toothbrush and, subsequently, your mouth. Before brushing your teeth, take a few extra seconds to wash your hands with antibacterial soap.

• Replace Your Toothbrush Regularly

Finally, every three or four months, you should replace your toothbrush. The bristles can wear out over time, resulting in poor cleaning. Make a note of when you begin using a new toothbrush so that you can replace it as needed.

You should also replace your toothbrush after recovering from an illness such as the flu or a cold. Bacteria from past illnesses can still be found in the bristles, thus completely replacing the brush prevents you from becoming unwell again.

Call Dentist San Jose CA at (408) 901-0101 or schedule an appointment online for the best dental care and experience.