When it comes to your toothbrush, there are several things you likely never think about. But if you were to ask your family dentist about the importance of these subjects, you might be surprised at the answers.
Information About Your Toothbrush
Proper Storage – After you brush your teeth, you should thoroughly rinse and store your toothbrush upright in the open air to allow it to dry out between uses. If placed upside down in a cup or kept in a closed storage container, the moist atmosphere can promote bacteria growth.- Replace Often – If you brush as prescribed for two minutes twice daily, the bristles begin to wear down in three to four months. Worn bristles do not do the best job cleaning your teeth. You don’t need to spend an exorbitant amount for a manual toothbrush, but make sure the brush you buy carries the ADA Seal of Acceptance. If you use an electric toothbrush, keep replacement heads on hand to change as needed.
- Soft, Medium, or Hard Bristles – You may think that a brush with firm bristles would be do a better job of cleaning your teeth. However, your family dentist recommends a soft bristle toothbrush using minimal pressure. This will be adequate to clean your teeth.
- Never Share – If you forgot your toothbrush you may think it is harmless to use someone else’s toothbrush “just this once”. However, you would be better off putting toothpaste on your finger and cleaning your teeth that way than taking a chance on being contaminated by whatever may be on a “borrowed” toothbrush.
- Adults are not monitored to make sure they are brushing as prescribed. The only person that will suffer for not following a daily regimen of brushing a minimum of two minutes twice a day is you. Take advantage of modern equipment available to maintain dental health, and brush as directed using a fluoridated toothpaste.
Brushing Technique is Important
Scrubbing your teeth can result in premature gum erosion and damage to the enamel on teeth. Use small, circular motions and moderate pressure cleaning the front, back, and top of all teeth every time you brush. Floss daily to remove what your toothbrush could not reach; and make sure you visit our family dental practice every six months for a professional cleaning and exam.