Your toothbrush and floss are responsible for keeping your teeth and gums healthy between checkups and teeth cleanings in Charlotte, NC. So, starting your oral hygiene sessions with a clean toothbrush and a fresh length of dental floss only makes sense.
Let’s explore the type of toothbrush you should use, how to clean it correctly, and signs you need a replacement.
About Your Toothbrush
Your toothbrush should be soft-bristled unless your Charlotte dentist says otherwise. It should also carry the American Dental Association’s seal of approval. Beyond that, choose a head shape that feels comfortable in your mouth. Some toothbrush heads are rectangular, and others are slightly diamond-shaped.
Cleaning Your Toothbrush
It’s crucial to clean your toothbrush correctly to avoid moving debris around in the mouth. We also recommend not brushing immediately after eating because this, too, can transfer debris. Be sure to rinse your mouth first!
It would help if you rinsed your toothbrush with warm water before and after brushing sessions. To thoroughly disinfect the bristles, you can run it through antibacterial mouthwash. Some people use white vinegar for a weekly bristle cleaning, or they dunk the brush head into a solution of two teaspoons of baking soda per one cup of water.
Any of these methods can help cleanse or disinfect your toothbrush.
When It’s Time for a New Toothbrush
Toothbrush bristles wear down over time, making brushing less effective. For this reason, you should change your toothbrush every three to four months, and anytime you notice bent or missing bristles.
If you’ve recovered from an illness, it might be best to celebrate your recovery with a brand-new toothbrush.
Is It Time for Your Next Dental Exam and Teeth Cleaning?
Even if you’re a champion brusher and flosser, you must still see your dentist every six months for checkups and dental cleanings. To schedule your next visit, call us today and remember to ask a team member about our exclusive savings plan.