Brushing your teeth with a soft toothbrush for two minutes, twice a day is very important. People generally forget that the cleanliness of your toothbrush is equally important. To maintain the best oral health at home during the COVID-19 pandemic, make sure you are cleaning your teeth with a fresh and soft-bristled brush every day.
You may already know that a lot of germs live on your toothbrush. It’s a fact that there are more bacteria in the mouth than anywhere else in your body. Some of these get stuck on your toothbrush when you brush your teeth. Most of us store our toothbrush in the bathroom. It tends to contain numerous airborne bacteria because of the warm & moist environment.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), a simple regimen for toothbrush care is enough to remove most microorganisms from your toothbrush.
Here are some common steps you can take to keep your toothbrush clean and safe to use.
1. Replace
The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three months. If you or a family member have been sick, it’s a good idea to replace all the brushes in your household.
2. Disinfect
Allow the head of your brush to soak in a small cup of antibacterial mouthwash or rubbing alcohol for a few minutes before or after brushing. Boil water and keep your brush in it for at least three minutes to kill most bacteria & germs. Make sure to rinse your brush under cold water afterward to bring it back to a safe temperature and wait a few more minutes before using it to avoid mouth burns.
3. Don’t Cover
Proper storage of the brush is just as important as a thorough cleaning. Keep it upright in a cup or holder to allow water to drip in the bottom, and store that cup in the open as opposed to a cupboard. Airflow will help the brush to dry and avoid growing bacteria.
4. Away from the toilet
When possible, avoid keeping your brush too close to the sink or toilet. This will help to keep your toothbrush from contaminating bacteria.
The toothbrush is a must for a good dental cleaning, but it’s surprising to realize the need for good care. According to dental experts, a healthy smile demands a healthy brush.
To learn more about our family dentistry practice in Woodstock, call Woodstock Dental Centre today at 519-537-6666 or book an appointment online.