Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Keep A Toothbrush Clean

Keeping your toothbrush clean is an essential part of good oral hygiene. Follow these tips to use regular household items to ensure your toothbrush's proper sterilization. A clean toothbrush means bacteria-free bristles.








Instructions


1. Clean your hands with soap and water before and after touching your toothbrush.


2. Wash your toothbrush after every use. Use your thumb to press against the bristles and allow the water to wash away food particles for at least 10 seconds.


3. Disinfect your toothbrush. Allow the toothbrush to soak in some antibacterial mouthwash that contains alcohol for 10 minutes after you brush. Soak the toothbrush in some vinegar every 2 weeks to kill remaining germs.


4. Store the toothbrush in a container that allows it to stand upright and exposes its bristles to air. Letting the toothbrush air dry keeps it mold-free. Consider buying two or three toothbrushes and rotating them so that each toothbrush will have at least 24 hours to dry out before you use it again.


5. Invest in a UV toothbrush cleaner. The light from the cleaner kills germs so that you don't have to.


6. Replace your toothbrush at the first signs of bent bristles. Buy new toothbrushes when you fall ill to avoid making yourself sick again. Otherwise, get a new toothbrush every 3 to 4 months.

Tags: your toothbrush