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You know the basics: Brush twice per day. What else is there really to know about toothbrushes? A lot, it turns out! Check out these fun facts about toothbrushes, brushing tips, and dental care in general.
Brush or Floss First? It’s Up to You
Some people like to brush first, then floss. Others like to floss first, then brush. Each camp might have pretty strong feelings about their chosen method. The verdict is in: It doesn’t matter. Either way, you’re removing plaque and debris from all surfaces of the teeth and from in between the teeth and under the gumline. That’s a win! Do whatever you like better.
You Need to Care for Your Toothbrush
Toothbrushes seem like sturdy little tools, but they do need a little bit of care to keep them up for their task of removing (not spreading) bacteria from your teeth. First, rinse all of the toothpaste off after each use. Leaving the bristles coated in paste and saliva is a bacterial party waiting to happen. Secondly, store them in an open container; don’t cover them with anything. Toothbrushes need a lot of air circulation to dry properly. Finally, please replace them every three months and after you have a cold, the flu, or a stomach bug.
Toothbrushes Have Evolved Substantially
Millennia ago, people chewed on sticks to remove plaque from their teeth. As time went on, these were gradually replaced with toothbrushes made of animal bones and hogs’ bristles. Doesn’t that sound appetizing? Modern toothbrushes like the type you buy at your closest drugstore came on the market in the late 1930s.
Electric Toothbrushes Aren’t Necessarily Better
If you have limited dexterity, an electric toothbrush can do a more thorough job than a manual toothbrush. But for most people, it really doesn’t matter which type you choose. Do what is easiest and most convenient for you and your teeth will thank you.
Be sure to combine your toothbrush with a fluoride toothpaste and dental floss, along with regular dental visits, to get the best results. Call us for an appointment if you’re due for a professional cleaning.
