Your Toothbrush: What you Need to Know
By: Stephen Price DDS | Saturday, April 30th, 2016 | Oral Health
Saturday, April 30th, 2016
That bristly little brush that you see morning and night is your first line of defense against potentially painful and costly dental problems. No one likes having cavities or inflamed gums, and brushing is an excellent way to avoid these problems. However, you need to know a little bit about your toothbrush so you can maximize its power!
Caring for your Toothbrush so it can Care for Your Teeth
You trust your toothbrush to keep your teeth clean and free of disease. However, did you know that the bristles of your brush can be very welcoming to bacteria, fungus, and germs? If these microorganisms build up on your brush, they are getting into our mouth. After you brush your teeth, leave your toothbrush in a place where it can fully dry out. This will inhibit the accumulation of bacteria.
You and Your Toothbrush, When to Call it Quits
You are not meant to have a lifelong relationship with any toothbrush. But just how often should you switch? No toothbrush should be overused to the point where bristles have flattened out and worn down. We recommend finding a new toothbrush about every three months. The durable new bristles will go a long way in helping you keep your mouth clean. It may also be a good idea to change your toothbrush if you have experienced a cold or flu, as bacteria can hide deep down between bristles.
Tips on Brushing
Your toothbrush cannot do magic on your teeth, making plaque instantaneously disappear. To get your teeth clean, you need to brush for two minutes, morning and night. Anything less and you are left with debris, bacteria, and a real risk of cavities and gum disease. After you have brushed each surface of your teeth with gentle motion, also brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth. Bacteria that remain in these areas can cause bad breath and other problems.
Oral hygiene affects your breath, the integrity of your teeth and gums, and your sense of confidence about your smile. Our team is here to help when you need us. To schedule your routine exam and cleaning, call (703)750-9404.
