Many people may assume that the best way to keep their toothbrushes in good shape is to keep them sheltered in a tiny space where they are protected from the surrounding environment. It’s common to see people storing their toothbrushes on their sides in a medicine cabinet where they sit in the dark for nearly the whole day. Unfortunately, this is a great way to turn your toothbrush into a breeding ground for germs. Here’s a brief guide to storing your toothbrush properly.
What’s Wrong with Storing My Toothbrush in the Cabinet?
Bacteria love dark, warm, damp places, as they provide them with the hydration and heat they need to function as well as shelter from the light that can harm them. If you’re storing your toothbrush in your medicine cabinet, you are providing these germs with exactly that sort of environment, especially since, depending on how much you brush, you may only have your toothbrush out for less than ten minutes every day. That’s a lot of time for your wet toothbrush to lay in your dark medicine cabinet while bacteria breed all over it.
How Should I Store My Toothbrush?
The American Dental Association recommends storing your toothbrush upright in an open environment, as this maximizes the amount of its surface area being exposed to airflow and light that will help it dry out. You can find a toothbrush holder at many department stores, and they come in a variety of styles and colors so that you can find one that matches your décor. If you prefer, you can even store your toothbrush in a cup on your bathroom countertop when you are not using it.
How Can I Clean My Toothbrush Holder?
Cleaning your toothbrush holder is the same as cleaning any other sort of dish. All you’ll need to do is wash it with warm water and dish soap or run it through the dishwasher. It’s best to do this at least twice a week to prevent germs and other debris from building up on it so that your toothbrush has a nice and sanitary place to hang out when you’re not using it.
Your toothbrush is a crucial tool for preserving your oral health. By taking proper care of it, you can minimize its germ exposure and keep it in good shape for as long as possible. Just remember to replace it after a few months or when the bristles become frayed.
About the Author
Dr. Ramon M. Ortiz earned his dental doctorate at Creighton University and took additional courses at the prestigious Spear Center in Scottsdale, AZ. He has also received training through Dental Implant Seminars and with CEREC Doctors. His office in Las Cruces, NM offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. For more information on storing your toothbrush properly, contact this office online or dial (575) 521-8720.