You might be diligent about brushing and flossing, but if you’re not using the right tools, your habits won’t help. At the end of the day, your oral care routine is only as good as your toothbrush. Thankfully, taking care of your brush is simple; to achieve optimal dental hygiene, just follow these tips. 

Do:

Replace your brush as needed. 

Toothbrushes become increasingly less effective at combatting plaque and tartar as their bristles wear down. As such, you should replace yours every three months or whenever it exhibits excessive wear. If the bristles have faded, are pointing in different directions, or have started falling out, toss the brush and get a new one.

Let your brush air dry. 

Always rinse your brush after use and then store it in an open holder, so it can air dry between sessions. And when traveling, make sure the bristles are totally dry before sealing your brush in an airtight container. Moisture facilitates the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria, none of which you want to introduce to your pearly whites. 

Don’t:

Store it next to the toilet. 

Whenever you flush the toilet, it releases particles of fecal matter into the air. To keep fecal particles from contaminating your toothbrush and making you sick, store it as far away from the toilet as possible, and always close the lid before flushing. 

Share your brush with others.

To prevent the spread of germs, everyone in your household should have their own toothbrush, and each should be stored in its own container or in a divided holder that inhibits contact.

You should also make it a point to replace everyone’s brushes when someone gets sick. Even if the brushes don’t touch one another, the bacteria or viruses could transfer within the holder, especially if an airborne contagion caused the illness. 

Brushing diligently with a properly cared for brush is just one component of oral care. To keep your teeth, tongue, and gums healthy, scheduling regular cleanings and exams are also essential. If you’re due for a trip to the dentist, head to Genrich Family Dentistry in Lincoln, NE. For more than 30 years, this practice has been providing comprehensive oral care for families across Lancaster County. A proud member of the American Dental Association, the National Dental Association, and the Lincoln District Dental Association, they’re equipped to perform preventive, restorative, and cosmetic procedures. To make an appointment, call (402) 466-2211 or reach out online.