Boise Dental Toothbrush Tips

When it comes to maintaining optimal Boise dental health, brushing your teeth is an important daily ritual. But how often do you think about your toothbrush? While you use it everyday to clean your teeth, your toothbrush may be contaminated with microorganisms that can make you sick. Viruses and bacteria can live on a toothbrush for weeks. Even normal, healthy microorganisms can cause an infection if they enter your gum tissue due to an injury, break or ulcer. Below are some Boise dental tips to help ensure your toothbrush stays clean and safe in between uses.

Placement Counts

While storing your toothbrush in your bathroom seems reasonable, you may want to think about where it is located. Every time a toilet is flushed, tiny water droplets can become airborne. If your toothbrush is near the landing zone, it can become exposed. Additionally, you may not want to place your toothbrush near the bathroom sink. Handwashing can expose it to soap and dirty water. Find a place on your bathroom counter in a far corner, away from the toilet and sink. Additionally, your Boise dentist recommends a wall-mounted toothbrush holder as a good place to store your toothbrush in tight spaces.

Don’t Cover Your Toothbrush

Plastic toothbrush covers are actually tiny bacteria incubators. Think about it. Bacteria thrives in warm, moist places. By placing a plastic cover over your wet toothbrush, you’re creating the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. Instead, your Boise dentist recommends rinsing your toothbrush in hot water after use, and letting it air dry without covering.

Replace Your Toothbrush Every 2-3 Months

Everything wears out over time, including your toothbrush. Over the period of 2-3 months, your toothbrush bristles will wear down and fray. Additionally, residue and bacteria also increase over time. Your Boise dentist recommends replacing your toothbrush often, especially if it starts to look worn down.

Replace Your Toothbrush if You Get Sick

Many illnesses are caused by bacteria. When you get sick, you’re actually transferring bacteria every time you brush your teeth. Prevent reinfection by replacing your toothbrush after an illness. Once you start feeling better, your Boise dentist recommends purchasing a new one just to be safe.

Don’t Share Your Toothbrush

Never share your toothbrush. Ever. Sharing your toothbrush can transfer illness or dental disease between users. Bacteria that causes gum disease and tooth decay can actually be transferred from person to person. Not only that, but sharing your toothbrush is just plain gross.

No matter what kind of toothbrush you use, it’s important to keep it clean, and fresh. Your Boise dentist recommends using a soft-bristled brush to avoid damaging your enamel and gums. The most important thing you can do when it comes to maintaining optimal dental health is to practice good personal dental hygiene and maintain regular Boise dental cleanings and checkups.