We all know the importance of good dental hygiene and how essential it is to brush our teeth twice a day. However, one thing we often overlook is how we store our toothbrushes. A breeding ground for bacteria or an essential tool!- Let’s keep it the latter and keep your mouth healthy, clean and your toothbrush doing the job for which it was intended!

A toothbrush is an essential tool for maintaining oral hygiene, but storing it correctly is just as important. In this blog post, we'll be discussing how to store your toothbrush correctly.

1. Keep it dry! -The first and most crucial rule of storing your toothbrush is to keep it dry. After you've brushed your teeth, shake off any excess water from the bristles, and then let it air dry in an upright position. This prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to the growth of bacteria and germs which we want to avoid!

2. Don't store it in a closed container - Storing your toothbrush in a closed container can create a humid environment, which can promote bacterial growth. It's best to store your toothbrush in an open-air environment to allow it to dry properly.

3. Keep it away from the toilet! -  When you flush the toilet, the germs and bacteria from the bowl can travel up to six feet away. Therefore, it's essential to store your toothbrush at least six feet away from the toilet to avoid contamination.

1. While we advocate using an electric toothbrush for optimal cleaning and oral hygiene, if you chose to use a manual brush, at Paste Dental Belfast we love recommending the Te-Pe brush range. A fab dental company from Sweden, Te-Pe brushes can be steeped in boiling water to kill bacteria, without degradation of the bristles or adhesives, allowing for super bacterial disinfection of your toothbrush head!

1. Avoid sharing toothbrushes - Sharing a toothbrush can transfer bacteria and germs from one person to another, leading to infections and diseases. It's best to have your toothbrush and avoid sharing it with others.

1. Use a toothbrush cover! - If you are traveling or need to store your toothbrush in a shared space, use a toothbrush cover to protect the bristles from coming into contact with other surfaces. Make sure to remove the cover when you use the toothbrush to allow it to dry correctly.

1. Replace your toothbrush regularly -Even with proper storage, toothbrushes need to be replaced every three to four months or when the bristles start to fray.  Many electric brush ranges offer plans, directly sending you a new head when required!

1. Keep it away from other toothbrushes! -When storing multiple toothbrushes, make sure they are not touching each other to avoid cross-contamination.

1. Use a toothbrush holder - A toothbrush holder is an excellent tool for storing your toothbrush in an upright position, preventing it from coming into contact with other surfaces. Make sure to clean the toothbrush holder regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria.

In conclusion, taking care of your toothbrush is just as important as brushing your teeth. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your toothbrush remains clean and hygienic, helping you maintain excellent oral health.

Remember to keep it dry, avoid sharing, use a toothbrush cover, replace it regularly, and keep it away from other toothbrushes. These small steps can make a big difference in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Happy brushing!

Book in today for an oral health assessment and personalised oral care plan, to help you really optimise your health and your oral cleaning routine!- Bespoke for you, always!