Changing Your Toothbrush
Cold & flu season has officially kicked off. If you want to stay healthy, practicing good hygiene habits is more important than ever~this includes good toothbrush hygiene. The ADA recommends replacing your toothbrush at least every three to four months. When bristles become frayed & worn out with use, cleaning effectiveness decreases. Toothbrushes will wear out more rapidly depending on factors unique to each patient. Check brushes often for this type of wear & replace more frequently if needed. Children’s toothbrushes often need to be replaced more frequently than adult brushes.
Do not share toothbrushes. Sharing a toothbrush could result in an exchange of body fluids and/or microorganisms between the users of the toothbrush, placing the individuals involved at an increased risk for infections.
Thoroughly rinse toothbruses with tap water after brushing to remove any remaining toothpaste & debris. Store the brush in an upright position & allow the toothbrush to air-dry. If more than one is stored in the same holder, keep the brushes separated to prevent cross-contamination.
Do not routinely cover the toothbruses or store them in closed containers. A moist environment such as a closed container is more conductive to the growth of microorgansims than the open air.