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Your toothbrush is an essential tool in maintaining good oral hygiene and a bright, confident smile. While we always focus on taking care of our teeth, many of us often overlook the importance of how to properly care for this vital instrument. Harmful bacteria can grow on your toothbrush if you neglect its upkeep, reducing its effectiveness and potentially compromising your dental health. Here are some simple steps that you can follow to keep your toothbrush in good condition so that it can protect your teeth.
1. Proper ways of toothbrushing
Do not use too much pressure when brushing. It can not only damage the enamel of your teeth but also make the toothbrush's bristles weak and less effective. People tend to brush aggressively, thinking it is the only way they can clean their teeth and whiten them, but it is actually counterproductive because it will cause the recession of your gums and the white, glossy enamel on your teeth to wear off, making your teeth look yellow and darker.
2. Air dry in an upright position
Do you place your toothbrush on the side of the sink or near the toilet? If you do, then water can splash on your toothbrush, and it will not dry properly. The moisture will result in the growth of bacteria and microorganisms. The best way to reduce the spread of germs is to air dry your toothbrush in an upright position while it is in a cup or holder. Store your toothbrush in the open, not in a closed container or cap. It should only be enclosed if it is 100% dry. Shutting the toilet lid can be more sanitary, but keeping the toothbrush as far away from the toilet as possible can protect it from the splash radius and consequent bacterial contamination.
3. Rinse with running water after and before brushing
Make sure you rinse your toothbrush under running water before and after usage to wash away residual toothpaste and bacteria. By doing this, you will prevent bacterial growth and minimize the risk of reintroducing harmful bacteria into your mouth during the next brushing session.
4. Protect your toothbrush when you travel
Do not forget to bring and protect your toothbrush when you travel. If you are keeping it in a travel bag or case, make sure it has plenty of room. When you are on the go, it is essential to protect your toothbrush from external contaminants. Ensure the holder has enough room for ventilation to allow the toothbrush to dry while it is not in use. Avoid using zip-top bags for extended periods, as they may trap moisture and promote bacterial growth.
5. When should you change your toothbrush?
You should replace your toothbrush every 3 months. This prevents excessive bacteria buildup. Dentists recommend getting a new toothbrush even sooner if the bristles become frayed. Regular replacement ensures that your special tool remains effective in removing plaque and maintaining oral health. For your next toothbrush, consider Darlie’s wide range of options, which caters to various preferences to fit your everyday dental needs.
Caring for your toothbrush properly is a simple yet vital aspect of maintaining good oral hygiene. By following these five easy steps, you can ensure that your toothbrush stays effective and free from harmful bacteria. With these practices, you can enjoy a cleaner, healthier and brighter smile. Take care of your toothbrush, and it will take care of you.
References:
- Dr. Jim Dental (no date) Taking Care Of Your Toothbrush. Available at: https://drjimdental.com/taking-care-of-your-toothbrush/ (Accessed: 01 September 2023).
- New Town Dental Care (2019) How to take care of your toothbrush, New Town Dental Care. Available at: https://www.newtowndentalcare.co.uk/blog/2019/6/13/how-to-take-care-of-your-toothbrush (Accessed: 05 September 2023).
- How to properly care for your toothbrush (no date) Family Dental Health Center. Available at: https://www.familydentalhealth.com/blog/posts/how-to-properly-care-for-your-toothbrush/ (Accessed: 05 September 2023).
- Use & handling of toothbrushes (2016) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/infectioncontrol/faqs/toothbrush-handling.html#:~:text=After%20brushing%2C%20rinse%20your%20toothbrush,let%20them%20touch%20each%20other (Accessed: 05 September 2023).
- Five simple habits to take care of your toothbrush (2021) LACER NATUR. Available at: https://lacernatur.es/en/five-simple-habits-to-take-care-of-your-toothbrush/ (Accessed: 05 September 2023).
- Webdev (2023) Toothbrush 101: How to choose & take care of your toothbrush, Randall Orthodontics. Available at: https://randallortho.com/toothbrush-101-how-to-choose-take-care-of-your-toothbrush/ (Accessed: 05 September 2023).
Being a dentist at the prestigious Tiew Dental, Dr Jacquelyn Lim is one you can rely on for accurate, professional advice. She graduated from University Malaya in 2019, and now has invaluable experience and knowledge, thanks to her time serving at government dental clinics. She has a special interest in Orthodontics and Periodontics. When she’s not treating patients at her clinic, she is either at the gym or travelling to her favourite destination.