You use your toothbrush every day to brush off plaque and bacteria from your teeth and tongue. It also helps to clean the remaining food particles stuck in your teeth after eating. But the germs from your mouth will now reside on your toothbrush. Moreover, toothbrushes are always kept in the bathroom, where bacteria is always lingering in the air.

Rinse off Your Toothbrush

After and before every use, make sure you wash your toothbrush with hot water. This helps get rid of the bacteria present on your toothbrush. Run hot water over the bristles before applying toothpaste. After brushing, repeat the process and clean your brush with more hot water.

Keep Your Toothbrush Dry

This might sound illogical, but when moisture is present on your toothbrush, it gives way to bacterial growth. Make sure to shake off the excess water on your toothbrush and place it vertically upright in a toothbrush holder.

Never leave your toothbrush flat on the sink. Keep your toothbrushes in a holder in a way that it is exposed to air and can dry out.

Never Share Your Toothbrush

Even though this is obvious, it is always necessary to remember to not share your toothbrush with anyone under any circumstances. Sharing toothbrushes increases the chance of developing oral health problems.

Wash Hands Before Using a Toothbrush

Always wash your hands with a bar of antibacterial soap before touching your toothbrush. You never know how many germs reside on your hands.

Regularly Replace Your Toothbrush

If you are not sure about the cleanliness of your brush, simply replace it with a new one. In general, a toothbrush should be replaced every three to four months.

You should also replace your toothbrush when:

• Bristles are worn out: If the bristles of your toothbrush are frayed or bent, that toothbrush can’t clean your teeth effectively.
• Someone was sick: If you or someone in your house had been sick with a contagious disease, using the same brush can spread the infection again.
• Sharing toothbrush: If you have knowingly or unknowingly shared your toothbrush with someone, replace it with a new toothbrush. There is no other way to disinfect a toothbrush other than replacing it.

Visit Jolly Family Dental at 4601 Fairway Ave, North Little Rock, AR 72116, or at our other location: 14309 Cantrell Rd Ste 6, Little Rock, AR 72223 for a thorough dental checkup. Contact us at (501) 758-7462 or (501) 228-6360. Visit our website for answers to your questions or concerns.