Having a good oral hygiene routine is an essential part of keeping your mouth healthy and your smile bright. See your dentist twice a year for regularl cleanings and checkups, and more often if you have tooth pain or concerns about your oral health. Part of making sure that you can carry out an effective hygiene routine is taking care of your tools. Always make sure that you use a sanitary toothbrush and floss when seeing to your oral hygiene. Picking a toothbrush that is comfortable for you to use is also a key component, and caring  for it while you use it also plays a role in your oral health. Here are three ways to keep your toothbrush in top shape. 

Store your toothbrush in a cool, dry area.

Your toothbrush inhabits a moist, warm environment each time that you brush your teeth. Bacteria from your mouth is then transferred to the bristles. In order to reduce the amount of bacteria on your toothbrush, you need to store it in an area that does not encourage bacteria colonies to grow. You should keep your toothbrush in a cool, dry area when it is not in use. You should not put a cover on your toothbrush for long periods. The cover creates an enclosed, moist environment that is perfect for bacteria growth. 

Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly with fluoridated water.

After each use, be sure to thoroughly rinse your toothbrush to clear the bristles of debris, toothpaste, and bacteria. You can take toothbrush cleanliness a step further by rinsing it with fluoridated water. Drinking water with fluoride in it helps to protect your teeth from harmful bacteria, and the same principle can be practiced with your toothbrush. After rinsing your toothbrush, make sure that you thoroughly shake the loose water droplets off. In order for it to stay clean, it needs to be as dry as possible.

Replace your toothbrush every three to four months. 

Just like any other item, toothbrushes give out due to wear and tear over time. Dentists recommend that you replace your toothbrush every three to four months, and more frequently if you have suffered from an oral bacterial infection or an illness that can be transferred by mouth or nose. Over time, the bristles of your toothbrush become worn down and too soft to effectively clean your teeth and remove food debris. Further, over time bacteria from your mouth can colonize on the bristles of your toothbrush and reinfect your mouth. Talk to people like Buffalo Dental Group for more information.

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