Imagine brushing your teeth with a bone and pig hair! That may sound crazy but the original toothbrush, invented by the Chinese, was made of just that. Modern day toothbrushes are made from synthetic materials. Toothbrushes are an effective staple in most people’s oral hygiene routine. Toothbrushes are a tool we use to keep our teeth and gums healthy and clean. Viera, FL dentists Dr. Roppa and Dr. Marshall-Roppa encourage patients to take good care of their toothbrush so their toothbrush can take good care of their teeth.
Toothbrush Maintenance Tips & Tricks
- Store Your Brush Bristles Up: Never store your toothbrush bristles down. You want your bristles to be upright in the open air so that the moisture can dry out when not in use. A toothbrush that stays moist is highly susceptible to growing bacteria and mold. Also be sure to clean out your toothbrush holder at least once a week to avoid bacteria build up on the bottom.
- Keep Away From The Toilet: We know this may seem like common sense. However, many patients do not realize your brush has to be at least 6 feet away from the toilet to avoid, shall we call them, floating particles. If you have a small bathroom, store your toothbrush, bristle side up, in your medicine cabinet.
- Rinse and Repeat: After you use your toothbrush be sure to rinse off the bristles. It only takes a few seconds and it can help reduce bacteria build up. Just run your brush under water to remove any debris or bacteria it accumulated while brushing your teeth.
- Toothbrushes only last 3 months: Say goodbye to your brush every 3 months. Toothbrushes lose their effectiveness and can grow bacteria after about 3 months of regular use. Be sure to replace your brush for your optimal oral health.
Schedule An Appointment
Visiting our Viera, FL dentist office at least twice a year for your professional dental cleaning and check up can help keep your smile fresh, functional and healthy. Professional teeth cleanings can help break up plaque brushing can not reach. Contact our Viera dentist office or schedule a consultation online.