How to Keep Your Toothbrush Clean

Having a beautiful smile goes beyond healthy teeth and gums. It’s also making sure you have the right hygiene tools, and that includes a clean toothbrush. It’s a detail that can easily be overlooked but keeping your toothbrush fresh and clean is important.

Your mouth is home to millions of germs which can easily find their way onto your brush. While these germs may not cause any serious health problems, keeping your toothbrush clean and properly stored should be part of your oral care regiment. Afterall, you can’t have clean teeth without a clean toothbrush.

So, if you’re wondering how to clean an electric toothbrush, or manual brush, here are a few tips to consider.

Properly rinse and store

After each use, properly rinse off your toothbrush with running water and remove any food particles and toothpaste. Then store your toothbrush by placing it upright into a toothbrush holder and allow it to dry completely between use. Air-drying your toothbrush will kill most of the germs, so it’s important to store it in a place that’s free from moisture.

Occasionally disinfect your toothbrush

Soaking your toothbrush in hydrogen peroxide solution or antibacterial mouthwash can also eliminate germs. Simply fill a small cup with a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution or antiseptic mouthwash, and soak your toothbrush for no more than 15 minutes. Mixing two tablespoons of white vinegar into half a cup of water also works.

Before you do this with an electric toothbrush, check first to see if it has a detachable head. If so, remove the head before placing it into the disinfecting solution.

Keep away from the toilet

Do not store your toothbrush near the toilet, as it can become vulnerable to what’s called “toilet plume.” Whenever a toilet is flushed, a cloud of aerosol droplets is dispersed into the air. These droplets often contain waste. Yes, the kind of waste that you get rid of in the toilet. This plume can span a radius of up to 15 feet into the air, and the closer your toothbrush is to the toilet, the more susceptible it is, to be covered in these droplets. Store your toothbrush as far away as possible from the toilet.

Replace toothbrush every 3 months

Many patients often overlook this but replacing your toothbrush every three months is the best way to avoid excessive buildup of germs. The bristles also get worn out over time, so brushing becomes less effective. Replacing your toothbrush is an important step in maintaining good oral health. If you have questions on how to choose the right toothbrush, you may want to check this out.

Traveling with a toothbrush

If you’re traveling, it’s just as important to make sure you are properly caring for your toothbrush. Make sure it completely air dries prior to putting it in a travel container. If you’re considering purchasing a toothbrush designed for traveling, make sure it’s well ventilated. Excessive moisture can cause germs to grow on your toothbrush so it’s important your toothbrush has the opportunity to dry.

Have more questions?

Have more questions about properly caring and storing for your toothbrush? Do not hesitate to ask.

Also, if you’re looking for a nearby periodontist, our team in Tampa and Port Richey can help. Feel free to contact us or request an appointment today.

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