We use our toothbrushes everyday, hopefully more than once a day, and we count on these tools to help us keep our teeth clean and healthy. But are we taking the best care of them?
Toothbrushes can be breeding grounds for bacteria and germs, so it’s important to rinse them well after brushing, and then keep them stored in an upright position to allow them to dry between uses. Proper drying helps to prevent bacteria from growing on the bristles.
If you or your family members are sick, ensure that none of the toothbrushes touch if they are stored together. As we mentioned above, germs can easily spread on a damp toothbrush, and can also spread from brush to brush. Separating the brushes will help keep the rest of you family members healthy.
Your toothbrush should be changed every 3 months or so, but it is also a good idea to replace your brush after an illness, to be safe. If your bristles are no longer straight before those three months are up, you may be brushing too hard or using the wrong kind of toothbrush – be sure to talk to your dentist about the best type for your oral health needs.