Bloomsburg, Danville, and Lewisburg, PA
Since you were a child, you’ve been told about the importance of brushing your teeth to keep your mouth healthy. But there might be one important step in your hygiene routine that you’ve been doing all wrong. You use your toothbrush every day, twice a day (if you’re a rule follower), but do you change your toothbrush often enough? General dentists in Bloomsburg, Drs. Joel Hamilton and Leigh Jacopetti-Kondraski want to share when you should throw out your old toothbrush and why trading it for a new one is an essential part of your oral health and your overall health.
How to Care for Your Toothbrush
Make sure to store your toothbrush in a dry, open area. Your toothbrush should be placed so it can stand straight up and not touching anything else. This limits the accumulation of germs, as harmful bacteria can flourish in a moist, damp environment. Avoid storing your toothbrush in a travel cover because it will trap moisture and bacteria. After brushing, be sure to rinse the brush thoroughly. This removes food particles and any bacteria stuck between the bristles, as well as any excess toothpaste. You also should never share your toothbrush because oral bacteria are transmittable to others! Viruses and even blood-borne pathogens may also be transmitted from person to person through sharing a toothbrush.
When to Replace Your Toothbrush
Rule 1) Every Three Months
Your general dentists in Bloomsburg will supply you with floss, toothpaste, and a new toothbrush after each cleaning at our office. While the America Dental Association recommends everyone has their teeth cleaned professionally every six months, your toothbrush isn’t meant to last that long. The ADA advises you to get a new toothbrush every three months.
Rule 2) Look for Signs of Wear
Do the bristles on your toothbrush look frayed or splayed? If your toothbrush looks like it’s been used to scrub a tile floor or a pair of tennis shoes, it’s time for a new one! Your toothbrush isn’t effective when it’s worn out. If you seem to be wearing down your toothbrushes rather quickly, before the end of three months, you could be brushing too hard, which could cause enamel erosion or gum recession. Lighten up on the grip and consider using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Rule 3) When You’re Sick
No one likes getting sick. If you become ill, you should swap out your toothbrush once you start feeling better. Using the same toothbrush after you’ve been sick could get yourself sick again. Avoid repeat illnesses by disposing of your toothbrush and getting a new one after a bought of sickness, fever, or stomach flu.
Dental Office in Bloomsburg
Got any questions about your brushing technique? One of our expertly trained and compassionate dental hygienists will be happy to instruct you on the best way to brush and floss your teeth during one of your regularly scheduled check-ups at our dental office in Bloomsburg. If you’ve neglected to go to the dentist recently, there’s no time like the present to get back on track. Make your appointment at Hamilton Dental Care today by calling (570) 387-0533 if you’re located in the areas of Bloomsburg, Danville, and Lewisburg, PA.
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