3 Things To Know About Toothbrushes

Your toothbrush is a very important item for good oral care, but are you using the right type? And, are you storing it properly and replacing it on schedule? These are important questions to ask, and here are the answers you need to get the most out of the toothbrush you use each day.

How to choose a toothbrush

There are many types of toothbrushes to choose from, but there are three main options which are soft, medium, and hard. Most dentists recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush, even though this option may seem like it may not clean your teeth as well as the other options.

Soft-bristled toothbrushes are actually capable of cleaning your teeth perfectly well, and they are beneficial because they do not damage your teeth in any way. Using a medium or hard-bristled toothbrush may actually cause damage to your teeth, and this occurs by brushing the enamel off of them. To avoid this, stick with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

How to store your toothbrush

The best way to store a toothbrush is an open location. In other words, do not place your toothbrush in a medicine cabinet, bag, or any other type of closed container. Your toothbrush needs to air out after each use, and placing it is a closed container will simply help the germs linger for a longer amount of time.

In addition, you should keep your toothbrush stored away from your toilet and sink. This is because germs from your toilet and sink can linger in the air and get trapped in your toothbrush.

When to replace your toothbrush

The third important thing to know is that you need to replace your toothbrush regularly. You can base this decision on a time frame or on the condition of your toothbrush. Generally speaking, you should replace your toothbrush every three months. If your toothbrush appears really worn before this time period is up, you should replace it sooner.

You should also replace it sooner if you have been sick with a virus or infection of any kind. By replacing it after illnesses, you can be certain that you will not be contaminating yourself with germs from your sickness.

Your toothbrush is the number one defense you have against decay inside your mouth, and this is why it is important to know how to properly choose, care for, and replace your toothbrush. To learn more, contact a dentist.