While dental patients already know the importance of brushing, one aspect of oral hygiene that is discussed less frequently is proper toothbrush care. Although it may seem inconsequential, taking care of this tool can have a significant influence on your dental—and, therefore, overall—health. The guide below offers advice for keeping yours in optimal condition.

Do:

Store it upright.

Always store your toothbrush bristles side up. This will encourage any excess moisture to move down the brush and away from the bristles, thus preventing bacteria from collecting there. To further discourage the development of bacteria, choose an open-style container to allow the brush to dry thoroughly. 

Replace it often.

Swap out your toothbrush every three months for the best oral hygiene results. A simple way to remember this tip is to buy a new brush on the first day of each season. 

Don’t:

Brush too vigorously.

Brushing too hard will fray your brushes quicker, leading to the need for a replacement sooner than every three months. Yet, it can also impact your oral hygiene over time. Vigorous brushing irritates the sensitive gum tissue, ultimately leading to gum recession. If your gums are sensitive, pick a soft-bristled brush and try using the opposite hand for one day to see how gently you should be brushing.

Expose it to germs.

While the job of the toothbrush is to get rid of bacteria, minimize its exposure to any additional germs. Keep your brush far away from the toilet to avoid any spray and consider keeping the lid closed to further minimize germ transfer. Additionally, any time you or your family members are sick, purchase a new set of toothbrushes for everyone.

While caring for your toothbrush is an essential component of comprehensive oral hygiene, it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Regular visits to your dentist for cleanings and exams are, likewise, crucial. If you’re due for an appointment, contact the office of Allen S. Braumiller Jr., DDS, PC. Serving Wagoner County, OK, this dentist has more than three decades’ experience and specializes in general and restorative dentistry for the whole family. Explore their full range of services online or call (918) 486-6516 to schedule an appointment.