A toothbrush is your most important weapon in fighting plaque and cavity-causing bacteria, so you need to make sure it’s up to the task. Taking proper care of your toothbrush is an often overlooked aspect of maintaining a healthy mouth. Here are some ways to keep yours clean:
Rinse your toothbrush with tap water After brushing your teeth, rinse your toothbrush with warm water to remove plaque, saliva and excess toothpaste. There’s no need to use soap or mouthwash; simply shake off any excess water from the brush. Keep in mind you should never use a towel to dry your toothbrush because you risk spreading germs onto it. Store your toothbrush upright Don’t lay your toothbrush on the bathroom counter. Stand it upright in a cup or toothbrush holder. Air kills the bacteria on your toothbrush, so you want it to dry as quickly as possible between brushings. Also, make sure you don’t put your toothbrush in a covered container. Furthermore, never store several toothbrushes in one cup or container where they can touch each other. Keep them separate. Clean your toothbrush holder once a week. Don’t share your toothbrush Sharing a toothbrush spreads bodily fluids and germs and can make you or someone else ill. Keep your toothbrush to yourself and keep an extra new toothbrush on hand in case someone needs one. Store your toothbrush away from the toilet When you flush your toilet, minute particles of water spray into the air and these tiny droplets can contain urine and fecal matter that may land on your toothbrush. It’s not a pleasant thought. Store your toothbrush away from the toilet, and close the toilet lid before you flush. Wash your hands Your hands pick up germs and bacteria throughout the day, and you don’t want to transfer all that stuff to your toothbrush and possibly your mouth. Wash your hands before and after you brush your teeth. When to replace your toothbrush Regular use will eventually make the bristles on your toothbrush fray and bend. When this happens, your toothbrush needs to be thrown out. The Canadian Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three months. Moreover, replace your toothbrush after you’ve been sick to avoid spreading harmful viruses and bacteria.
Family Dentistry in Calgary
At Forest Lawn Dental Centre, maintaining your family’s oral health is our most important job. Our team of dental professionals provides all types of affordable family dentistry, including checkups and exams. We bill below the Alberta Dental Fee guide because we believe everyone should have access to affordable dental care in Calgary.
To schedule an appointment or learn more about our dental services in SE Calgary, contact us today.y.