It should come as no surprise that in order to have good oral hygiene, you have to properly care for the tools you use to clean your mouth. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that toothbrushes be replaced every few months, but proper daily care of your brush can have a big effect. Here are some tips to keep your toothbrush in tip-top shape.
Don’t share. This is definitely not something to be taken lightly. Sharing a toothbrush can result in the transference of bodily fluids and/or microorganisms, putting brushers at an increased risk of infection.
Rinse thoroughly. It’s important to remove any remaining food particles or toothpaste from the toothbrush.
Store upright. This will allow the greatest airflow and most effective drying position. If more than one brush is stored in the same cup or holder, ensure that the bristles aren’t touching.
Avoid covering. A moist, enclosed environment can allow microorganisms to grow, more so than in the open air.
Replace regularly. Depending on different variables, toothbrushes can wear out at different rates. It’s safe to assume that all brushes will need replacing after 3-4 months. Always remember that children’s toothbrushes often need replacing more frequently than adult toothbrushes.