Some patients of our International District Seattle dentistry are using a poorly maintained toothbrush, and this is aggravating their dental problems. Though your brush may seem like a simple device with a simple function, there are many ways that your brush can fall short and even start doing more harm than good if you don’t maintain it properly.
Firstly, remember to replace your brush every three months. This is generally how long it will take for your bristles to be worn down too much to clean your teeth effectively. They become weaker, they jut out at unfavorable angles, and they’re not lifting plaque away like they ought to.
Another problem that can show up on your brush is bacteria build up. Your brush is always exposed to bacteria in your mouth, and these bacteria can quickly multiply deep within the bristles. To fight this, it’s a good idea to store your brush upright, like in a cup or a brush holder. This allows it to dry out between use, which makes it a less friendly environment for microbes. You might also occasionally dip the bristles into hot water or an antibacterial mouthwash. Do not microwave your toothbrush or attempt to wash it in the dishwasher; these can damage your bristles.