The best way to know when it is time for a new brush is when it starts feeling stiffer. It is also recommended by dentist in Brampton for everyone to keep their toothbrush in an upright position so as not to contaminate the bristles with saliva and bacteria. When toothbrushes go bad, they will start to harbour bacteria between the bristles. If you brush with a toothbrush that is too short, then bacteria can enter the base of the toothbrush. Toothpaste also contains enzymes which help break down food particles and prevent them from lingering in between your teeth.
Between 6-12 months old, a new brush should be purchased because there are many studies that have shown harmful effects to developing teeth from bacteria under the bristles of a used toothbrush. The same goes for adults that have not replaced their toothbrushes in a while. Oral bacteria can become overpopulated in the mouth, which can lead to gum disease, cavities, or even cavities which do not get filled by a dentist. A way to reduce this overpopulation is through better oral hygiene routine and flossing!
Getting the right brush:
The toothbrush should be:
- Handmade, not recycled plastic.
- 3 bristles or more.
- 3.2mm or thicker diameter.
- Shade of white to off-white, not tan or pink.
- Not gel or antibacterial bristles.
- Never electric! Only non-detergent is advised.
- Handle between 8 and 10 inches long.
- Handle with a comfortable grip.
- Should have rounded ends.
How to Care for Your Toothbrush
Optimal Cleaning: It is important that the bristles are cleaned out after each use of the toothbrush or once a week at the very least. Keeping the bristles clean will prevent plaque from building up in between them and will help prevent your mouth from getting cavities and gum disease.
This is just a small list of criteria for a good toothbrush. Just because it looks nice does not mean that it is going to give you the best clean possible. If it does not do the best job in your mouth, then get a new one! After every 3-4 uses, the bristles should be rinsed with plain water. Ideally, you should brush your teeth at least twice a day, but even if you don’t always have time for that, at least once. You are supposed to brush your teeth with the same toothbrush until it is worn out or until you think that the bristles need to be replaced. Do not use your toothbrush for other purposes besides brushing teeth.
Make sure that you never dip your toothbrush in a liquid cleaner and then rinse it off. This will contaminate the bristles and cause bacteria to live between the bristles, which can lead to problems with gums and teeth. Rinse your toothbrush in water instead!
Avoid putting toothpaste on your toothbrush before you brush. The bristles of your brush should be clean, so you do not need to put any chemicals on it.
Storing and Handling Your Toothbrush
Never store your toothbrush in the same place as a glass bottle or in a plastic bag; this is because these chemicals can reduce the life of the bristles and cause bacteria to grow near the base of the brush.
- Store your toothbrush upright and not in the holder. This will prevent bacteria from spreading between the bristles and keep it clean.
- After using, wash your toothbrush as soon as possible. Even if you cannot finish brushing, at least rinse it with water to reduce plaque on the bristles.
Your toothbrush should only be stored for no more than 18 months before needing a new one.