The Best Care For Your Toothbrush

Brushing your teeth twice a day helps to remove plaque from your teeth. When plaque is not removed, it hardens into a substance called tartar. Tartar is very hard to remove and can only be removed by a dental professional.

When plaque and tartar are allowed to remain on your teeth, they lead to tooth decay. Cavities are formed when tooth decay is left untreated. Cavities need to be treated, or they can spread to the roots of your tooth, causing you to lose the tooth. When you brush your teeth, you’re removing plaque from the surface of your teeth. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day keeps your gums healthy and limits your risk of gingivitis. Here are a few tips to keep your toothbrush clean and effective. 

• Replace your toothbrush regularly

A toothbrush is meant to last about three months. As soon as the bristles are frayed, it’s time to replace it. A toothbrush with frayed bristles cannot clean your teeth as effectively, which puts you at risk for tooth decay and gum disease.

• Rinse your toothbrush with mouthwash

Your toothbrush harbors millions of bacteria, so it’s important to clean it. Rinsing your toothbrush with mouthwash will help get rid of bacteria. You should rinse your toothbrush after brushing and before storing it. 

• Clean your toothbrush

The secret to keeping your toothbrush clean is to keep using it. When you keep your toothbrush clean, you remove plaque and bacteria that build up on the bristles over time. Cleaning your toothbrush is easy, and it only takes a few minutes.

Start by removing excess toothpaste from your brush. Next, rinse your toothbrush off under warm running water. This removes any toothpaste residue. Finally, place your toothbrush in an upright position and let it air dry.

• Store your toothbrush correctly

Never store your toothbrush in a closed container. Germs can grow in small, enclosed spaces. It’s best to store it upright in an open container or let it dry out between uses. Your toothbrush should also be replaced every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.

• Replace your toothbrush sooner if a cold sore is present

The herpes simplex virus causes cold sores, and it is contagious. So, your Dentist in Livermore, CA, recommends you replace your toothbrush soon after cold sore presents itself. Cold sores typically last for one to two weeks, but the virus can remain active for a prolonged period of time. It’s wise to use a new toothbrush long after symptoms subside.

• Replace your toothbrush sooner if the flu is present

If the flu is going around, replace your toothbrush sooner rather than later. The flu is contagious, meaning it can spread from person to person. The flu can lead to you being sick for a week or two, which can put you at risk of getting sick again. Because the flu is contagious, it’s best to replace your toothbrush while you have the flu. This will help prevent the sickness from spreading.

Alta Vista Dental provides the best dental services in Livermore, CA, with the expertise of experienced dentists. Call 925-292-1459 and book your appointment to learn more ways to take care of your oral and dental health.