Take a look at your toothbrush. Do you take care of it? Your toothbrush is your key to a healthy smile, and it is important to care for it well.
Toothbrushes only last for 3-4 months. If you have had yours longer than that, you need to replace it. But don’t worry! There are lots of fun colors and styles, even in adult styles. There is no need for your toothbrush to be boring! A few things to remember when purchasing a toothbrush:
Buy a soft-bristled toothbrush the right size and shape for your mouth. Hard bristles can damage your teeth and gums, and wear away at tooth enamel. This can increase tooth sensitivity and make you more susceptible to cavities.
Purchase a toothbrush with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This seal, granted by the American Dental Association, guarantees a quality product. To earn the seal, products must pass a series of rigorous tests for both safety and effectiveness. This ensures you are getting a product that does what it says it does–in this case, it is designed to effectively clean teeth without damaging them.
Remember to use gentle pressure when you brush, to avoid damage to your teeth and gums. Lastly, never share your toothbrush with anyone else! Sharing toothbrushes leads to extreme contamination, leading to the spread of bacteria, food particles, disease, and infection. It’s not worth it! Be sure to keep your toothbrush to yourself.
Lastly, be sure to support your brushing habit with regular, consistent visits to your dentist. If you live in the Fort Worth, Texas area, call Brent A. Spear, DDS at 817.920.1488. Dr. Spear and our team will be happy to answer any questions you have, and help you achieve a great smile!