Your toothbrush is your first line of defense against the nasty oral bacteria that erode dental enamel and cause painful and destructive oral infections, but it doesn’t make sense to clean your teeth with a dirty tool. Thankfully, there are a few simple guidelines you can keep in mind to ensure you store your toothbrush in a sanitary manner that discourages the accumulation of infectious germs. Here’s a quick guide to how you can keep your toothbrush in great shape when not using it.
How Should I Not Store My Toothbrush?
Some people store their toothbrushes in ways that allow nasty germs to easily grow on them. Be sure to avoid habits like:
- Storing your brush in the medicine cabinet: While it might seem like it makes sense to keep your toothbrush in a sheltered place such as a medicine cabinet, doing so will protect it from the airflow it needs to dry out between brushings. This keeps the brush in the damp, dark environment destructive bacteria love and can increase your risk of oral infection.
- Storing your brush horizontally: Many people lay their toothbrushes down flat between brushings, but this can make it harder for the brush to drain off and dry out. This can make it easier for harmful bacteria to grow, especially if a puddle forms around the brush or if it is resting upon a damp washcloth or hand towel.
How Should I Store My Toothbrush?
It’s best to store your toothbrush upright in the open air using a toothbrush holder. This will make it easier for gravity to pull water away from the device when it is not being used while exposing it to airflow that will help it dry out. Reducing moisture in this way will make it harder for bacteria to grow, and exposing the brush to light will also help kill and discourage the reproduction of harmful germs. It’s best to replace your toothbrush after several months or whenever the bristles start to become frayed.
Don’t let poor toothbrush storage habits compromise your oral hygiene routine. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand how to keep your smile in excellent condition for life.
About the Author
Dr. Lauri Barge earned her dental degree at the Texas A&M College of Dentistry and completed her General Practice Residency at Olin E. Teague VA Hospital. She is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the Denton County Dental Society. Her office in Flower Mound offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. To learn more about excellent oral hygiene habits, contact her office online or dial (972) 539-3800.