When looking around your bathroom, you may not pick your toothbrush as the first thing you should sanitize. With so many germs coming from different areas, the one item that you regularly put in your mouth to scrub your teeth should be as clean as possible, right? But what can you use to ensure it is, in fact, disinfected and ready to go when you go to brush your teeth next time? A dentist in Myrtle Beach offers helpful tips to keep your toothbrush as clean as possible so that it prevents plaque and tartar from accumulating and causing harmful decay and disease.
Rinse Toothbrush Bristles Thoroughly
When you finish brushing your teeth, you’ll notice there is toothpaste often left behind. Not to mention the germs and bacteria you cannot see. To effectively remove these from your brush, rinse it with clean water before standing your toothbrush up and allowing it to air dry. Avoid keeping your toothbrush in a drawer or using a travel cover, as these are often dark and damp and can harbor additional germs.
Disinfect Your Toothbrush Bristles
Rinsing your toothbrush is certainly a step in the right direction but disinfecting them, especially after being sick, can keep you from contracting the same harmful germs again. To do this, you might try one or more of the following:
- Use an antibacterial mouth to swirl your toothbrush around in for at least 30 seconds.
- Combine 2 teaspoons of baking soda with a cup of water and allow your toothbrush to soak.
- Use 1 cup of water and 1 teaspoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide and quickly swirl your toothbrush in the solution before you begin to brush your teeth.
- Once a week, soak your toothbrush in vinegar overnight.
- If you have denture cleaner, try dissolving 1 tablet and soak your toothbrush in the solution.
Remember, never use a mouthwash that you’ve disinfected your toothbrush in to rinse your mouth, and if you’ve been sick, you may also opt to throw out your current toothbrush and purchase a new one. If you have an electric toothbrush, you can simply replace the brush head.
The important point is that you keep your toothbrush clean, no matter if you replace it with a new one or continue using the brush you currently own. The few minutes you take to disinfect and clean your toothbrush will make a big difference in the health of your smile. Not only will you be taking better care of your most important oral hygiene tool, but you’ll also be protecting your teeth and gums from tooth decay and gum disease.
About the Author
If you’re worried about the health of your teeth and gums, Dr. Jack
Markusen starts all new patients off with a complimentary consultation! As a
dedicated and passionate dentist located in Myrtle Beach, he and his team make
it a priority to help all patients achieve healthier smiles. Dr. Markusen’s
experience spans more than 40 years. After being honorably discharged in 1971
from the United States Air Force, he enrolled at Baptist College of Charlestown
and received his Bachelor of Science degree two years later. He then went on to
the Medical University of South Carolina, School of Dentistry, and graduated in
1976. To find out how we can help you, visit our website or call (843) 916-0990.