{"id":1199,"date":"2021-07-13T12:29:00","date_gmt":"2021-07-13T12:29:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.smilespringfield.com\/blog\/?p=1199"},"modified":"2021-09-16T12:32:39","modified_gmt":"2021-09-16T12:32:39","slug":"how-to-clean-your-toothbrush","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.smilespringfield.com\/blog\/2021\/07\/13\/how-to-clean-your-toothbrush\/","title":{"rendered":"Oral Care Tips: How to Clean Your Toothbrush"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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When was the last time you cleaned your toothbrush? If you can\u2019t remember, don\u2019t worry \u2013 you\u2019re not alone. Most people don\u2019t realize that cleaning your toothbrush is just as crucial as brushing your teeth. Although you don\u2019t have to sterilize it every day, you should still take some extra steps to keep it clean in between uses. Otherwise, it can lose its cleaning ability and fail to keep your mouth healthy. Read on as your dentist in Springfield explains how to clean your toothbrush.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

How Should You Clean Your Toothbrush?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

According to manufacturer guidelines and dentist recommendations, you should replace your toothbrush<\/a> every three to four months \u2013 sooner if the bristled become damaged or splayed. However, here are some ways you can keep it clean in the meantime:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rinse with Hot Water<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The most widely used method of sanitizing a toothbrush is to run hot water over the bristles before and after each use. It\u2019s a simple but effective technique! It eliminates bacteria that has collected in between sessions, along with new bacteria that accumulates after brushing. Keep in mind that the water should be hot enough to produce steam!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Soak It in Antibacterial Mouthwash<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you want to take it a step further, consider soaking your toothbrush in antibacterial mouthwash! Allow your toothbrush, head down, to sit in a small cup of mouthwash for about two minutes after each brushing. However, because mouthwashes usually contain harsh ingredients, this method can wear out your bristles much faster.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Use Denture Cleanser<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Did you know that you can use a denture cleansing solution to sterilize your toothbrush? It might sound odd, but denture cleanser is made up of antimicrobial ingredients that target bacteria and plaque in your mouth. To use this approach, dissolve half a cleansing tablet in a cup of water and submerge your toothbrush in it for 90 seconds. Just make sure you don\u2019t reuse the solution on your dentures!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tips to Keep Your Toothbrush Clean<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Now that your toothbrush is nice and clean, here\u2019s what you can do to ensure it stays that way:<\/p>\n\n\n\n