Toilet Lid Down and Toothbrush Cover Off Please!
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This week’s question is:
Is it a Tooth Truth or a Mouth Myth that flushing the toilet spreads germs that can contaminate your toothbrush?
Answer:
Your Dakota Dental Apple Valley dentists, Dr. Shelley and Dr. Bennett, report that this is a Tooth Truth.
Often people keep their toothbrush in a holder somewhere on their bathroom counter top. Although this is a handy spot, this convenience comes with a price. When the toilet is flushed, the bacteria within the toilet are aerosolized and can travel up to six feet, landing on your counter top, floor and your toothbrush.
Your Dakota Dental clinic suggests that you tuck your toothbrush in a medicine cabinet or drawer to keep it from accumulating bacteria. It’s also a very good idea to get into the habit of always closing the toilet lid before flushing in order to prevent the spreading of bacteria.
Just for giggles – and of course, bright healthy smiles – here are five additional hygienic toothbrush tips from your Dakota Dental Family Dentistry friends:
1. Even though it may seem more hygienic (and maybe even a bit more civilized) to slide a nice little cover on your toothbrush after brushing your teeth, it actually is not a healthy practice. Moisture gets trapped within the toothbrush cap, keeps your toothbrush bristles from drying out and promotes bacterial growth.
2. The caring staff at your Dakota Dental Center suggests that you replace your toothbrush after you have a bout of the flu, a cold or other viral infections. Notorious microbes like to implant themselves within your toothbrush bristles and can lead to re-infection.
3. Think of proper toothbrush care as an important part of your personal oral hygiene. A worn toothbrush can’t adequately clean your teeth. Dakota Dental Family Dentistry suggests following the American Dental Association’s recommendation that you replace your toothbrush every 3–4 months or sooner if the bristles become frayed.
4. Make sure you’re brushing for an adequate amount of time! Your Dakota Dental Apple Valley dentists remind you that it takes at least three minutes to adequately brush your teeth. Time yourself! Don’t cheat your teeth!
5. Don’t forget to brush your tongue. Because bad breath related bacteria like to hide out within the many crevices of your tongue, it’s important to make brushing your tongue a routine part of brushing your teeth.
Even with the toilet lid down, a brand new toothbrush and your very best personal oral hygiene, it’s still very important to come in and see the caring and professional team at your Dakota Dental Clinic for routine dental cleaning and preventative dental procedures. These professional dental services are vital for good gum and dental health.