You brush your teeth at least twice a day to remove bacteria and food debris from your mouth. But do you know how to use a toothbrush properly? If you don’t, your toothbrush could be harboring harmful germs that can lead to gum disease, oral infections and even heart disease. Luckily, there are a few simple things you can do to clean and disinfect your toothbrush hygienically so that it’s safe to use again.
Always wash your hands before and after handling your toothbrush. This prevents germs from traveling from your hands to the bristles of your toothbrush and back again. Hand soap also helps to keep your hands moist, which reduces the risk of bacterial growth.
Avoid using toothpaste that contains abrasives or chemicals. These can erode the enamel of your teeth and cause gum disease. Look for a natural or organic toothpaste with no added ingredients.
When choosing a toothbrush dentist in Stavanger, opt for soft bristles. Hard bristles can irritate your gums and make it harder to clean your teeth. In addition, you should get a new toothbrush every few months, or sooner if it seems worn out. Look for one with the American Dental Association seal of approval.
When you’re done brushing, rinse your mouth and toothbrush thoroughly. This will help to remove any traces of food debris or leftover toothpaste. Afterward, make sure to shake your toothbrush out and let it dry completely before storing it.
Store your toothbrush with the bristles facing up and away from other brushes. This will reduce the chance of bacteria growth, which thrives in moist environments.
You should also avoid storing multiple toothbrushes together, especially those of different family members. This can cause the spread of germs, as bacteria can easily transfer between people via their saliva.
Never share your toothbrush with anyone, especially if someone has a cold or other illness. Your mouth already has a healthy flora of bacteria, so there’s no need to introduce unwanted ones through your toothbrush.
If you do need to share a toothbrush, be sure to disinfect it after each use. You can use hot water, hydrogen peroxide, antiseptic mouthwash or baking soda to kill any germs that may be on your toothbrush. You should also try to brush your teeth at least twice a day, and at night if possible. This will help to prevent plaque and bad breath, as well as fight off any infection-causing bacteria that may have built up in your mouth overnight.