If you only think about replacing your toothbrush once the bristles are so worn down that it no longer works, think again: Your toothbrush could be home to up to 10 million germs and bacteria! If you don’t want to brush your teeth with germs, you should probably replace your toothbrush more often. In today’s blog, find out exactly how often you should replace your toothbrush and why, below.
You probably need to replace your toothbrush more often.
Do You Know How Often You Should Replace Your Toothbrush?
How often you should replace your toothbrush
Your Olney dentist recommends that you replace your toothbrush every 3 months, or as soon as the bristles begin to wear down. Depending on how firmly you brush, your bristles may wear out more quickly, in which case you should replace your toothbrush more often. The best way to know whether it’s time to replace your toothbrush? Keep an eye on the bristles. As soon as they begin spreading out in different directions, it’s time to throw this one out and replace your toothbrush with a new one.
How to keep your toothbrush in good shape
The best way to cut down on the number of germs that live on your toothbrush is to ensure that it is allowed to dry completely in between uses. Germs grow and multiply in the presence of moisture, so if your toothbrush is dry they will not be able to get out of hand. And while 10 million germs may sound like a lot, they won’t harm your health. Your toothpaste contains anti-microbial properties which helps to prevent germs from interfering with your oral health.
How to clean your brush if you’re a real germophobe
If you really hate the idea of brushing your teeth with a germy toothbrush, there are a few things you can do to ensure that your brush is thoroughly cleaned.
Boiling water. Dip your toothbrush in boiling water for 5-10 seconds. Don’t leave it any longer or it may warp or melt.
Peroxide. You can also dip your toothbrush in 50/50 solution of peroxide and water between uses.
Your Olney dentist
Interested in learning more about how cosmetic dentistry can make your smile happier? Call Olney Dental at (301) 250-1057 or contact us online for an appointment. And don’t forget to visit Facebook, Twitter,Google+, Pinterest, and YouTube to connect with us on social media.