Toothbrush Care & Replacement Article | Brushing & Flossing | Colgate® Oral Care Information Good Oral Hygiene
How can I take care of my toothbrush?
To
keep your toothbrush and yourself healthy, make sure you let it dry out
between uses. Toothbrushes can be breeding grounds for germs, fungus and
bacteria, which after a while can build up to significant levels. After
using your toothbrush, shake it vigorously under tap water and store it
in an upright position so that it can air out.
To prevent cold and flu viruses from being passed between brushes,
try to keep your toothbrush from touching others when it is stored. A
standard toothbrush holder with slots for several brushes to hang
upright is a worthwhile investment in your family's health.
How often should I change my toothbrush?
Most dentists agree you should change your toothbrush every three
months. Studies show that after three months of normal wear and tear,
toothbrushes are much less effective at removing
plaque
from teeth and gums compared to new ones. The bristles break down and
loose their effectiveness in getting to all those tricky corners around
your teeth.
It is also important to change toothbrushes after you've had a cold,
the flu, a mouth infection or a sore throat. That's because germs can
hide in toothbrush bristles and lead to reinfection. Even if you haven't
been sick, fungus and bacteria can develop in the bristles of your
toothbrush —another reason to change your toothbrush regularly.
How can I protect my toothbrush when traveling?
A plastic toothbrush case will protect toothbrush bristles from
becoming squashed or flattened in your traveling kit. After
brushing, however, you should let your toothbrush dry in the open air, to help reduce the spread of germs.
