Toothbrush Care Alert

If you haven’t thought about it recently, your life probably consists of routines that accomplish your daily goals. For example, you’ve set your circadian rhythm, so that you fall asleep and awake about the same time. Each morning, you perform the same menial tasks to prepare for the upcoming daily events. Involved in all of this activity is your toothbrush: A small, oral cleaning instrument that doesn’t get paid much attention, except for when you scrub your teeth or in general dentistry discussions. Dr. Loukas explains in the following content the importance of toothbrush care. 

Bacteria: On Your Brush and In Your Mouth

Did you know that there are over 600 different kinds of identifiable bacteria occupying your mouth at this very moment? To counter the growth of bacteria, preventive dental care, such as at-home brushing, flossing, and fluoride rinsing, and regular in-office checkups and cleanings remains paramount to oral health.

Your toothbrush exists as another location that bacteria may thrive. Microorganisms prefer dark, damp places similar to your mouth for survival. Your toothbrush, depending on care status, could be a prime location to breed bacteria.

Clean And Store Your Toothbrush Properly

Research has shown that bacteria can, indeed, migrate from your mouth to your toothbrush. It shouldn’t be surprising that since there are hundreds of microorganisms in your mouth that transference occurs during use. However, some of the following toothbrush cleaning and storage tips could keep you from countering your routine oral health habits:

Sharing: Do not share a toothbrush with anyone. Viruses exist in saliva, which could lead to cross contamination if a brush is shared. Bacteria on another persons toothbrush could lead to transference and ultimately oral infection.

Wash and Rinse: It is vital that you rinse your toothbrush thoroughly with tap water after use. This process assists in removing any food particles that bacteria or fungus may be able to feed on in between uses.

Storing: Keep in mind that a dark, damp location facilitates the growth of bacteria. Storing your toothbrush, after use, in a container or medicine cabinet could allow for the very bacteria you remove from your mouth to remain on your brush. Proper storage allows for your brush to “air-dry” and stand upright to drain any excess water that does not evaporate.

Replacement: Every three-to-four months you should replace your toothbrush. The effectiveness of your brush is determined by its integrity. This time frame is a guideline to keep in mind the lifespan of your brush. However, if your bristles begin to fray before the three month mark, replace the brush. Frayed bristles remain ineffective in removing plaque form your teeth and gums.

About Loukas Dentistry Of Park Ridge

Dr. Maria and Dr. Thanasi Loukas are highly-skilled restorative, cosmetic, and implant dentists serving the Park Ridge and surrounding Chicago communities. To schedule an appointment, call Loukas General Dentistry today at (847) 696-1919.