Oral Care Tips: How to Clean Your Toothbrush

When was the last time you cleaned your toothbrush? If you can’t remember, don’t worry – you’re not alone. Most people don’t realize that cleaning your toothbrush is just as crucial as brushing your teeth. Although you don’t have to sterilize it every day, you should still take some extra steps to keep it clean in between uses. Otherwise, it can lose its cleaning ability and fail to keep your mouth healthy. Read on as your dentist in Springfield explains how to clean your toothbrush.

How Should You Clean Your Toothbrush?

According to manufacturer guidelines and dentist recommendations, you should replace your toothbrush every three to four months – sooner if the bristled become damaged or splayed. However, here are some ways you can keep it clean in the meantime:

Rinse with Hot Water

The most widely used method of sanitizing a toothbrush is to run hot water over the bristles before and after each use. It’s a simple but effective technique! It eliminates bacteria that has collected in between sessions, along with new bacteria that accumulates after brushing. Keep in mind that the water should be hot enough to produce steam!

Soak It in Antibacterial Mouthwash

If you want to take it a step further, consider soaking your toothbrush in antibacterial mouthwash! Allow your toothbrush, head down, to sit in a small cup of mouthwash for about two minutes after each brushing. However, because mouthwashes usually contain harsh ingredients, this method can wear out your bristles much faster.

Use Denture Cleanser

Did you know that you can use a denture cleansing solution to sterilize your toothbrush? It might sound odd, but denture cleanser is made up of antimicrobial ingredients that target bacteria and plaque in your mouth. To use this approach, dissolve half a cleansing tablet in a cup of water and submerge your toothbrush in it for 90 seconds. Just make sure you don’t reuse the solution on your dentures!

Tips to Keep Your Toothbrush Clean

Now that your toothbrush is nice and clean, here’s what you can do to ensure it stays that way:

• Store it in hydrogen peroxide. Keeping your toothbrush in a small cup of hydrogen peroxide can help keep bacterial growth to a minimum. Make sure you change the solution daily!
• Carefully examine your toothbrush. Watch out for discoloration, buildup, or matted bristles – they indicate that it’s time to toss out your toothbrush.
• Never share it with others. It’s not a good idea to introduce your mouth to bacteria from someone else. Also, you should avoid storing multiple toothbrushes together to prevent cross-contamination.
• Give it lots of fresh air. Do not store your toothbrush in a dirty cup, drawer, or travel case. It can promote mold or bacteria growth, leading to diseases like gingivitis. Instead, keep it in an open-air holder.

Keeping your toothbrush clean can ensure you’re getting the most out of your brushing sessions. By following the tips outlined above, you can maintain a strong, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime!

About the Practice

At Advanced Dental Care of Springfield, we go above and beyond to provide exceptional, compassionate, personalized dental care that is bound to exceed even the highest expectations. Our team is passionate about educating patients to help them make informed and confident decisions about their oral health. If you have any questions about keeping your toothbrush clean, we’re more than happy to answer them for you. Visit our website or call (217) 546-3333 to speak to a professional.