|
Posted on 3/20/2019 by Dick Hikade, DDS |
 Your toothbrush serves an important role in keeping your mouth healthy. Unfortunately, this dental tool encounters a lot of bacteria, germs, and food debris, so regular cleaning is necessary. These are a few of the times when your toothbrush requires cleaning, and by properly caring for your brush, you can ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy today and in the future. Daily CleaningTo some extent, you should clean your toothbrush daily. After use, it is important to give your toothbrush a thorough rinse with warm to hot tap water. This will remove any excess debris and bacteria that may have been left behind. Some people choose to soak their toothbrush in mouthwash, and while this won't damage your brush, the American Dental Association states that there is no clinical evidence that this activity yields a positive effect.Dental Cleaning after IllnessIf you or one of your family members are sick, you should clean your toothbrush more frequently to protect your body from a problem. During this time, use of an antibacterial mouthwash could offer some benefit, killing off bacteria before they can infect – or re-infect – you or your family members.Some people invest in a UV toothbrush sanitizer, but it is important to note that these tools don't remove all germs, and they tend to wear down the bristles quickly. You'll need to replace your toothbrush more often with this method. There are other steps that you can take to prevent illness. Replace your toothbrush more frequently, and you may even want to swap your brush out for an entirely new one after an illness. Temporarily using disposable toothbrushes might also serve as a good alternative. If you have any questions about how to care for your toothbrush – or your teeth – we are here to help. Call us today to set up your next appointment. |
