FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida – It’s a fact: germs are lurking everywhere. From the people we meet to the objects we touch throughout the day, we are constantly exposed to germs. One place that should be a germ-free zone, however, is your toothbrush. Taking extra precautions to ensure that your entire family keeps their toothbrushes clean is one great way to fight germs and keep everyone healthy. Here are some tips to keep your mouth and your toothbrush clean.
Never Share Your Toothbrush
It’s important to never share your toothbrush, even with other members of your family. Each member of your family should have their own toothbrush in order to prevent cross-contamination. When a toothbrush is shared, there is an increased risk of developing infections or diseases because of the exchange of microorganisms and body fluids.
Wash Your Hands
Throughout the day, your hands meet several germs. One of the simplest ways to ensure you aren’t spreading these germs is to wash your hands. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to wash your hands before brushing your teeth. Following this step helps to prevent you from spreading any germs from your hand onto your toothbrush and, ultimately, to inside your mouth.
Rinse
After you have used your toothbrush, take a few moments to rinse it off. Run the toothbrush under the faucet for several moments to ensure that it is clean. This step helps to rid the brush of any toothpaste, food particles or other debris that may have become lodged inside the bristles.
Keep Moisture Away
It might seem like an oxymoron to keep moisture away from your toothbrush, but it’s important if you plan to keep your toothbrush clean. After you have used your toothbrush and rinsed it, store it in an upright position in order to keep moisture away. A toothbrush holder that allows both the top and bottom of your toothbrush the chance to breathe is an ideal option.
Replace Your Toothbrush
Replacing your toothbrush periodically is another important step to take if you want to fight germs. It’s a good idea to replace your toothbrush every three to four months. However, it’s important to note that this is merely a guideline. If the bristles on your brush become damaged or frayed before then, you need to replace it right away. Bristles that are worn can’t efficiently clean your teeth, increasing your chance for dental disease.
Dr Sharon Robinson, DDS, owns and operates the Dental Place in Plantation, Florida, with a second office – the Dental Place Cosmetix Spa in Kingston, Jamaica. She may be contacted at 954-792-1857. Visit their website, www.dentalplace4u.com
