Safekeep Your Toothbrush from Unsanitary Practices

Imagine brushing your teeth and cleaning your mouth with a toothbrush that is swarmed with disgusting mold, decaying food particles and nasty bacteria. Distasteful isn’t it?

A clean toothbrush is essential to having and maintaining good oral health so it is crucial that you take time to find out how to store it in safe and proper ways.

Rinse it well. Make sure to give your toothbrush a thorough rinse and not leave any toothpaste and food residue in it. For a more effective cleansing before and after brushing, use hot water. In this way, you are more likely to kill germs, airborne bacteria and other particles that may have settled in your toothbrush.

Let it dry in the open. Bacteria live in low oxygen environments so exposing your toothbrush to air and letting it dry will kill most, if not all, of them. It is also a better option to store your toothbrush somewhere that has adequate air circulation or ventilation than keeping them stashed inside cabinets or drawers to prevent bacteria accumulation.

Store it upright. You do not want your toothbrush’s bristles touching the scum at the bottom of your holder, do you? That’s right, keep it upright. This will allow water to drain from the bristles and prevent it from collecting mold and bacteria from your toothbrush container or holder.

Keep your brush away from others’. Store your brushes separately to prevent cross-contamination and the spread of sickness within the family.

Avoid the toilet and sink. Familiar with the aerosol effect, where surface near the toilet gets contaminated after flushing? Trust us; you don’t want that infecting your toothbrush, as much as you not wanting soap and any other nasty substance to contaminate it. So keep your brush somewhere open but not too close to the sink or toilet.

Store it far away from cleaning products. Make sure you keep your toothbrush in far contact with products that contain harsh or toxic ingredients as possible.

Replace it regularly. Don’t hang on to your toothbrush for more than three or four months. If you notice the bristles wearing off or are already frayed, replace it immediately. It has done its job well so it’s time to say good bye. Keeping it will not make it any more effective.
Get in touch with our Scottsdale cosmetic dentist for all other dental care concerns.

About The Author

Dr. Koch

Dr. Robert Koch

Dr. Robert Koch earned a Masters degree in Biomedical Science and Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Midwestern University. Dr. Koch’s patient-first approach to dentistry is rooted in education for both himself and his patients. Staying up to date with the latest advances in dentistry allows him to offer the best treatment plans for his patients. He aims to educate and inform patients in a comforting environment that allows patients to feel confident in the decision-making process of their treatment.