3 Tips For Keeping Your Toothbrush In Working Condition

Everyone knows how important it is to brush and floss teeth. This is something that is taught to even the youngest of children. However, what most people fail to learn is how to properly care for their toothbrush. If you don't know how to care for your toothbrush, you could be compromising the health of your teeth without even knowing it. Even though you might be brushing often, you might not be getting your teeth as clean as you think you are. Here are some things you need to know about caring for your toothbrush.

1. Keep The Brush Out In The Open

One of the first things you need to know is that you must keep the toothbrush out in the open after you use it. Some people choose to put their toothbrush in an airtight case. This should never be done. Without the open air, the bacteria on the brush will stay and fester on the brush until you use it again. This means that all of the bacteria you removed from your mouth are simply sitting on the brush waiting to be reapplied.

Instead, you should store it on the counter or out in the open where it is exposed to air. Not in the cupboard or a drawer.

2. Don't Ever Lay It Flat To Dry

Another important thing is to keep the brush upright after you use it. This will help the bacteria to slide down the brush while it dries. If you lay it flat to dry, the bacteria will have nowhere to go, so it will stay on the bristles. This is why storing the brush in a cup or container upright is the best.

3. Clean It Without Harming The Bristles

Another important thing is to be sure that you are cleaning your brush properly. Some people might think it is a good idea to put the brush in the dishwasher. Although the heat and detergent may help to remove the bacteria, this will actually damage the bristles. Damaged bristles are not effective at removing bacteria from the teeth. This is why you should avoid the dishwasher and instead soak the brush in some kind of anti-bacterial solution. You can use mouthwash, hydrogen peroxide or any other kind of cleansing solution. This will ensure that the bacteria are removed from the brush without harming the brush itself.

By doing these simple things you can keep your brush effective. 

For more information and tips, talk with a dentist, such as those at Mammoth Spring Dental Clinic LLC.