Toothbrush care is vital for good oral health. Your toothbrush is your tool for a healthy, happy smile, and should be treated well. Here are some things to remember as you strive to do so.

First, remember that toothbrushes should be replaced every 3-4 months. This will help keep your mouth clean, as bacteria are prone to growing on toothbrushes. If the bristles of your brush look frayed or worn, replace the brush sooner than 3-4 months. Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hard bristles can damage tooth enamel and hurt your gums. Remember to use gentle pressure as you brush to help reduce these issues.

When you buy a toothbrush, choose one with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This seal guarantees a solid product that has passed rigorous testing for both safety and effectiveness. The Seal cannot be purchased; it must be earned through testing. This ensures you get a product that does what it says it does. In this case, that is that the toothbrush is designed to give your mouth the best clean possible.

Next, when you store your toothbrush, make sure it is in open air and not a closed space. Closed spaced allow bacteria to breed rapidly, filling your toothbrush and eventually your mouth. If you must keep your toothbrush in a closed space for a period of time, say for traveling purposes, be sure to air it out as much as possible.

Finally, support your tooth brushing habit with regular visits to your dentist. This allows them to catch any problems early, clean your teeth, and instruct you for any further dental care improvements needed. If you are in the Las Cruces, New Mexico area, please call David Sudimack at 575-522-7320 to schedule your next appointment. Dr. David Sudimack and our team will be happy to help you!