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A Better Toothbrush For Healthier Teeth

Imagine brushing your teeth with bone and pig hair.

The first recorded toothbrush in human history was designed by the Chinese Could you imagine brushing your teeth with bone and pig hair? Probably not, but the original toothbrush, invented by the Chinese, was made of just that. Today’s toothbrushes are made of synthetic materials and are an effective tool for keeping your smile healthy and clean. Chesapeake dentist Dr. John Cranham encourages patients to take care of their toothbrush so that they can do an effective job at helping to maintain your oral health. Toothbrush Maintenance Norfolk, VA Store Upright- Be sure you store your toothbrush bristle side up. When stored bristle side up water can drain away from the head of the brush minimizing the chance of bacteria growth.Be sure to clean your toothbrush container every few days to wash away the buildup. Stay Away From The Toilet: Dr. Cranham may suggest keeping your toothbrush at least six feet away from the toilet. Airborne particles are released when you flush, the last place you want them to end up is on the bristles of your toothbrush. Rinse and Repeat: After every use rinse your toothbrush. Rinsing your toothbrush will help to remove some of the debris or bacteria that it removed from your teeth. Replace Frequently: Every 3-4 months you should replace your toothbrush. Bristles wear down and become less effective at cleaning plaque off your teeth. Getting a new brush will also help avoid bacteria buildup on your bristles. Size & Shape: Always buy a soft or extra soft bristled brush. Hard bristles do not bend easily and can miss plaque in hard to get places. Soft bristles are more malleable and actually clean more effectively. In addition, soft bristles are less likely to irritate or make the gums bleed. Schedule An Appoinment Visiting our Chesapeake dentist office twice a year can also help keep your smile fresh, functional and healthy. Professional teeth cleanings can help break up plaque brushing can not reach. Regular visits to Dr. Cranham may also help to catch signs of serious oral health concerns early. Dr. Cranham has dedicated his life to learning innovative and quality dentistry. Highly trained in cosmetic, restorative and general dentistry, Dr. Cranham will address all of your oral health concerns. Call our Chesapeake dentist office to schedule your next appointment, or use our online request form.and was made from bone and pig hair bristles.  Today, toothbrushes are made from synthetic materials designed to effectively clean the teeth and gums. There are endless options in the aisles of stores. Some toothbrushes are equipped with tongue cleaning features, others have thicker rubber bristles, while some are powered by electricity. Whichever brush you like to use- it is important to keep it clean and store it properly so that it can do its job well.  Brushing your teeth is an essential step in maintaining your healthy teeth and gums.

Shippensburg, PA dentist Dr. Zachary Sisler encourages patients to take care of their toothbrush so that your toothbrush can take care of your teeth! 

A Better Toothbrush For Healthier Teeth

Bristles Up & Out- Your toothbrush should always be stored in uncovered with the bristle side up. Allowing your brush to dry inbetween use can prevent bacteria buildup. Be sure to wash out your storage cup every few days as well.

Remain 6ft Away: Not from your toothbrush, but the toilet. Toothbrushes are commonly stored in the bathroom, this is okay, just make sure your brush is stored at least six feet away from your toilet. Every time you flush airborne particles are released into the air- and could potentially land on your brush’s bristles.

Clean Toothbrush, Clean Teeth: After every use thoroughly rinse your toothbrush with water. Rinsing your toothbrush will help to remove some of the debris or bacteria that it removed from your teeth.

Treat Yourself To A New Brush: Bristles do not last forever. With frequent proper brushing, the bristles on your toothbrush begin to wear down after about 3 months. Toothbrushes become less effective over time and eventually no longer successfully remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. It is recommended that you replace your toothbrush once every 3 months.

Find The Right Fit: Brushing your teeth should be enjoyable. Brushing should feel comfortable and leave your mouth feeling refreshed and clean. Finding the right style, shape and size of a toothbrush can help ensure that you are not damaging your gums. In most cases a soft bristled brush with a medium sized head is ideal. Soft-bristled brushes are more malleable and actually clean in hard to reach spaces more effectively than a hard bristled brush. Soft bristles are also less likely to irritate or make the gums bleed.

Remember, brushing your teeth twice a day and effectively flossing daily can help keep your smile healthy and beautiful. At home oral hygiene and routine visits to our Shippensburg, PA dentist office are the best ways to prevent dental disease and tooth loss.