The common household toothbrush. Every Elizabethtown home has at least one, and hopefully all Elizabethtown residents are brushing their teeth after each meal. While cosmetic dentistry and a complete smile makeover seem to be all the rage these days, daily brushing is still the most important thing you can do for your oral health.
It has been said that each toothbrush can contain millions of bacteria. But don’t worry, those bacteria come from our mouths, which harbor equal amounts of bacteria. For a person with a healthy immune system, these bacteria pose no threat.
However, a few common sense tips might keep any unnecessary germs from affecting the toothbrushes of Elizabethtown area dental patients.
First, be sure to store your toothbrush as far away from the toilet as possible, and close the toilet lid before flushing. Each flush of the toilet releases a spray of bacteria into the air, so it’s best to just eliminate the spray.
Next, since bacteria like a moist environment, store your toothbrush upright and without a travel case so that it can dry completely between uses.
The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months. Brushing and flossing are the key to good oral health, and doing both each day will keep Elizabethtown dental patients’ risk for gum disease, cavities, and bad breath low.
Keep your smile bright by visiting White Family Dental regularly and practicing proper oral hygiene.
Dr. Ed White has been a family dentist in the Elizabethtown area since 1984. We can answer any questions you have about cosmetic dentistry procedures such as tooth whitening, porcelain veneers, dental implants, and clear braces.
Call to schedule an appointment today!
