Should You Throw Away Your Toothbrush After Covid?
According to your dentist, you should replace your toothbrush every three months to give yourself a healthy smile. According to Colgate and Oral-B, to provide the best oral health, you should also throw your toothbrush away once the bristles become hard or after being sick with the flu, cold, and Covid.
If you are positive for Covid, you should store your toothbrush away from others in the household. You should also use your own toothpaste and rinse your toothbrush in separate sinks. You should also make sure your toothbrush tip and toothpaste container do not touch. And, make sure you wash your hands after brushing your teeth.
You can disinfect a toothbrush by placing it in boiling water for 3 minutes. Although it will be harsh on your brush, the boiling hot water will kill most germs on the bristles. You can also place it in the silverware compartment of your dishwasher to sanitize it. But, make sure you run it through the hot cycle with no soap when you clean your toothbrush.
The American Dental Association does not specifically say you should replace your toothbrush after an illness but does acknowledge that bacteria lives on the bristles and should be replaced regularly. Studies show that each time you brush your teeth, you transfer bacteria to and from your mouth and brush. Keeping your toothbrush around after being sick is unsanitary.
Ten Toothbrush Tips
- Air dry your toothbrush. Don’t cover it as a moist environment fosters bacterial growth.
- Never share your toothbrush.
- Don’t let your toothbrush touch someone else’s.
- Always use a completely dry toothbrush.
- Replace your toothbrush every 3 months.
- Wash your hands before and after brushing your teeth.
- After brushing, rinse your brush with warm water.
- Store your toothbrush upright in a small cup.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush approved by the ADA.
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
Schedule An Appointment with Rio Dental & Orthodontics
Whether it’s been six months since your last dental appointment or you’re looking for a kids’ dentist in Fort Worth, make an appointment online today with Rio Dental & Orthodontics.
