What Is the Best Way to Store Your Toothbrush?

Keeping up an excellent oral hygiene routine includes investing in all of the proper dental tools. It’s important to have a soft-bristled toothbrush, dental floss, and mouthwash on hand. As for your toothbrush, have you ever thought about the way that you store it? Some methods are better than others. Continue reading to learn the best way to keep your toothbrush in tip-top shape.

Toothbrush Don’ts!

Don’t Keep Your Toothbrush Near the Toilet

If you have a small bathroom, and your toilet has a powerful flush, toilet water could be coming dangerously close to your toothbrush. A 2005 study recorded toilet microorganisms’ traveling as far as 2.7 feet! If the bathroom counter is close to your toilet, you might want to consider a wall mouth that you can place a safe distance away.

Don’t Lay Your Toothbrush Flat

Laying your toothbrush flat on the counter allows remaining water to pool at its base. This creates the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. Instead, you should store your toothbrush upright so the extra water doesn’t linger around.

Don’t Keep Your Toothbrush in the Same Cup as Another Toothbrush

While it may seem like an organized way to store your family’s dental tools, keeping them all in the time toothbrush holder introduces the risk of the bristles touching each other. This can spread bacteria and illness. It is best if each member of your family has their own toothbrush holder.

Toothbrush Do’s!

Use a Holder Specifically Made for Toothbrushes

The best way to store your toothbrush is to use a holder specifically made for it. These are much better than the household items you might have laying around. Toothbrush holders have air holes to ensure that they dry properly.

Let Your Toothbrush Dry

Air is needed for toothbrushes. If you are keeping your toothbrush in a tight cover or a drawer, it may not be getting the air circulation it needs to dry properly. Leftover moisture I your toothbrush can lead to bacteria growth.

Clean Your Toothbrush Holder Frequently

It is recommended that you swap out your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months, but do you ever clean your toothbrush holder? Regularly cleaning it will keep away the dust, germs, and dried toothpaste. Depending on the type of holder you have, you can put it in the dishwasher, wipe it down with sanitizing wipes, or use soap and water.

Proper care of your dental tools is part of maintaining an excellent at-home oral hygiene routine. By adhering to the do’s and don’t above, you can set your smile up for success!

About the Practice

At Arbor Dental Care, Dr. Frank Marchese and Dr. Jeanelle Marchese work together to treat patients in the Lisle community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof! To learn more about oral hygiene or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (630) 969-2310.