As we usher in 2013, this is the perfect time to remember to replace both your and your child’s tooth brush. Dr. Brandon recommends that you replace your toothbrush every 3 months. Studies have shown that one uncovered toothbrush can harbor more than 100 million bacteria, including the dreaded infection causing E.Coli and Staph bacterias. Dr. Brandon says not to worry too much though, as your mouth contains hundreds of microorganisms naturally. However, it is important to think through how your toothbrush is stored.
Even through most people store their toothbrush out in the open air on the bathroom counter, Dr. Brandon recommends using some common sense when deciding where to store your toothbrush. “It’s a good idea to keep your toothbrush as far away from the toilet as possible when not in use”.
In addition, here are some tips to keep in mind all time, not just when you get a new toothbrush.
- Keep it rinsed.Wash off your toothbrush thoroughly with tap water every time you use it.
- Keep it dry. Bacteria loves as wet, warm environment. Make sure your brush has a chance to dry thoroughly between brushings. Avoid using toothbrush covers, which can create a moist enclosed breeding ground for bacteria.
- Keep it upright. Store your toothbrush upright in a holder, rather than lying it down.
- Keep it to yourself. No matter how close you are to your sister, brother, spouse, or roommate, don’t ever use their toothbrush. Don’t even store your toothbrush side-by-side in the same cup with other people’s brushes. Whenever toothbrushes touch, they can swap germs.
Speaking of a new toothbrush, who wouldn’t enjoy brushing their teeth twice a day for two minutes with one of these cool “Tooth Tunes” toothbrushes? Did you know that brushing alone only cleans about 65 percent of your teeth? That’s right, flossing daily will clean the other 35 percent your toothbrush misses, so why not add flossing to your daily dental hygiene regime as well in 2013? More on that to come…
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