Don’t Be Afraid to Change Your Toothbrush

Are you delaying swapping out your frayed toothbrush for a new model? Well, don’t be! My Holland dental office wants you to know that it’s in the best interest of your oral and overall health to make the change to a new toothbrush. We understand that sometimes it’s easy to forget, so here’s a reminder to check the status of your brush.

It’s A Switch’y’ Situation

The wayward, battered bristles clinging to life on your favorite toothbrush are actually a lot less effective at helping your teeth get clean. The American Dental Association (ADA) has these helpful recommendations (and my dental office in Holland couldn’t agree more):

• Change your brush every three to four months.
• Make the switch earlier if bristles start to breakdown.
• Children need new brushes more frequently than grownups.

Breaking Down the Bacteria Connection

Some researchers and doctors say that toothbrushes create the perfect environment for bacteria to set up shop. The ADA says that toothbrushes are susceptible to bacterial transfer from the mouth or the air, but it isn’t necessarily a cause for concern. Why? Because our bodies are regularly exposed to germs and are uniquely equipped to defend ourselves from attack.

How to Keep Your Toothbrush Clean

There are few ways you can help keep bacteria in the bathroom at bay and away from your toothbrush.

• Never share your toothbrush with anyone, even family members. Bacteria could be there no matter who you’re sharing with.
• Use good ol’ tap water to rinse away unwanted debris and leftover toothpaste that can give bacteria something to grab onto.
• Keep your toothbrush standing upright when not in use for maximum germ-free storage and the benefits of a good air-drying.
• Separate your family’s brushes when they’re not being used.
• Steer clear of toothbrush covers that can create an arid environment where germs can easily multiply.

Your Holland dentist knows how important it is to keep your smile healthy. The same goes for your toothbrush. By making the change regularly and storing it properly, you can ensure your teeth are getting the thorough, germ-free cleaning they need to stay strong.

Accepting new patients from Holland, Saugatuck, and Zeeland.