Consider your toothbrush, and how much work it does to keep your mouth healthy and your smile strong. But how well do you take care of your toothbrush?
Did you know that a toothbrush only lasts 3-4 months? They need to be replaced frequently, even if the bristles look “fine.” You should get a new brush even sooner if your old one looks frayed or worn.
When buying a new toothbrush, make sure it has received the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This label tells you that the product has passed rigorous testing for both safety and effectiveness. This guarantees a quality product that will help your healthy oral hygiene habits.
When storing your new toothbrush, make sure it is upright, in a well-ventilated area. This will help keep bacterial growth down. Don’t store your brush around other brushes. If you must store it near other toothbrushes, make sure the heads don’t touch, as this encourages cross-contamination.
Make sure that you are the only one who uses your toothbrush, and that you don’t use it for anything other than brushing your own teeth. Toothbrush sharing is extremely dangerous to your oral health, as it spreads not only food particles and debris, but also bacteria, infection, and disease.
Lastly, support your hard work by visiting the dentist twice a year. This will make sure your teeth are clean and any problems are caught early, helping to prevent dental emergencies. To schedule an appointment in the New Castle, Indiana area, call Family Dental Care of New Castle at 765-529-4300. Dr. Seth Conley and our team will be happy to see you!