Middlesex NJ Dentist Explains the Proper Way to Store a Toothbrush
As your dentist in Middlesex NJ, we want to ensure that your oral hygiene is at its’ best. It is extremely important to brush your teeth and floss daily, but more importantly, you need to store your toothbrush properly. It’s hard to clean the teeth using something dirty! A clean toothbrush not only helps to clean the teeth, but it can freshen your breath and remove bad bacteria as well.
How do you clean a toothbrush?
You should clean your toothbrush before and after each use by rinsing it off under hot water. This will help to kill and bacteria and germs as well as remove them from the bristles. Run your thumb along the bristles underneath hot running water.
Every so often you can even sanitize your toothbrush using an antibacterial solution. These can be found in drug stores, and typically the toothbrush remains in an antibacterial solution for at least 10 minutes. After it is cleaned off, it is important to place your toothbrush somewhere to dry.
How to store your toothbrush:
Storing your toothbrush is just as important as cleaning it. It is important to store your toothbrush at an upright position (bristles as the top), separate from all other toothbrushes, and at least 2-3 feet away from the toilet. Storing the toothbrush at an upright position ensures that any trapped bacteria and water will drip down.
It is important that your toothbrush be held in an open container with proper ventilation. Storing your toothbrush in a closed container is not clean or sanitary. Your toothbrush needs proper air flow in order for it to dry.
How often should you replace your toothbrush?
The American Dental Association recommends that you get a new toothbrush at least once every 3 to 4 months. It may even need to be replaced sooner than that. If you notice that the bristles on your toothbrush have begun to fray, it’s about that time to get a new one.
Just as important as properly storing a toothbrush is, properly brushing is even more detrimental to your oral health. Visit your Middlesex NJ dentist and ensure that your teeth are as healthy as possible. Ask your doctor if you’ve been flossing and brushing properly. Call (732)-356-1606 to schedule an appointment today!
