Toothbrush Care 101

Using a tooth brush to clean your teeth on a regular basis is a broadly practiced method of caring for your teeth. But with such an important job entrusted to it, your toothbrush needs care as well! For starters, did you know that your toothbrush can become contaminated with the same bacteria associated with gum disease and tooth decay? Do you know how often you should replace your toothbrush or how to store it properly?

Welcome to Toothbrush Care 101 where you will learn the simple basics of taking care of one of the most important tools you'll ever own -- your toothbrush.

1. Do not share toothbrushes - period. The exchange of body fluids that such sharing would foster places you at an increased risk for infections. This is a particularly important consideration for people with compromised immune systems or infectious diseases.
2. After brushing, rinse your toothbrush thoroughly with tap water to ensure the removal of toothpaste and debris. Allow your toothbrush to "air-dry" and then store it in an upright position. If multiple brushes are stored in the same holder, do not allow them to come in contact with each other.
3. It is not necessary to soak toothbrushes in disinfecting solutions or mouthwash. This practice actually may lead to cross-contamination of toothbrushes if the same disinfectant solution is used over a period of time or by multiple users.
4. It is unnecessary to use dishwashers, microwaves or ultraviolet devices to disinfect toothbrushes. These measures may actually damage your toothbrush.
5. Do not routinely cover toothbrushes or store them in closed containers. This creates a humid environment which is far more conducive to bacterial growth than open air.
6. Replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months or sooner if the bristles appear worn or splayed*. This recommendation of the American Dental Association is based on the expected wear of the toothbrush and its subsequent loss of mechanical effectiveness, not on its bacterial contamination.

*Splayed: 1. to have an oblique or slanting direction. 2. to spread or flare.

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