Would you clean yourself with a sponge full of germs?

Then imagine using a dirty toothbrush. As many people strive to keep a good oral hygiene, most fail to maintain their brushes clean.

As we grow up, we develop certain habits to help ourselves keep healthy and have a good appearance. Brushing our teeth is one of these habits; one we learn since we were kids, but also one most people don’t quite do well. Dentists and oral care specialists recommend brushing your teeth a minimum of twice a day and flossing at least once. But none of this is effective if your toothbrush is not clean enough before you put it in your mouth.

Even if it appears to be clean, a toothbrush can remain contaminated with potentially pathogenic organisms able to hazard your dental health.

In order to maintain your toothbrush as clean and germ-free as possible, there are 14 tips you can follow to ensure you make the most of your daily oral hygiene:

  • Be aware that keeping the toothbrush in a cabinet or inside a protector increases the presence of bacteria.
  • Likewise, keeping multiple toothbrushes in a cup helps spreading bacteria when brushes rub against each other.
  • Toothbrushes must be replaced every 3 to 4 months in order to prevent damage to your mouth which can lead to gum diseases and treatments needed on your teeth because of enamel erosion.
  • It is important to always wash your hands before using the toothbrush.
  • Similarly, the brush has to be washed before and after every use by holding it under running water while rubbing your thumb over its bristles with force.
  • Fluoride toothpaste must be used whenever you brush your teeth.
  • When the bristles appear to split or bend, the toothbrush needs to be replaced.
  • Also, throw away and replace the toothbrush of anyone who has been sick at home, as well as every other toothbrush that has come into contact with it.
  • You must always keep your toothbrush away from the toilet.
  • You can place occasionally your toothbrush in the dishwasher to provide it with a deeper cleaning.
  • You can also place it in a mug with boiling water for about 30 minutes every other day.
  • If you prefer, you can replace the hot water for mouthwash, which alcohol kills more effectively the remaining bacteria present in the toothbrush.
  • Alternatively, you can keep your toothbrush in a cup of water with 3% hydrogen peroxide and change the solution every time you use it.
  • If your concerns about bacteria and germs are greater, you can ultimately consider buying a UV toothbrush cleaner.

Keeping your toothbrush at its better condition is key to ensure the best possible hygiene standards, as it is receiving hygienist treatments at least once a year to guarantee a deeper cleaning of your teeth and gum line and prevent future risks for your dental health.

When it comes to perform your daily oral hygiene, make sure you count on the best products at their best condition.