Researchers in once recent study found 100 million bacteria on one uncovered toothbrush. With all those bacteria lurking on your brush should you be worried?

Relax, we’ve got tons of bacteria living in our mouths every day. We brush and floss to keep the numbers under control. Some of these bacteria are good guys and some are bad and cause tooth decay and gum disease — we’re still trying to figure out how to kill the bad ones but keep the good ones around. For now, all of the toothpastes and mouth rinses attack all the bacteria.

Back to that dirty toothbrush. Remember that plaque is bacteria so every time you brush to remove plaque you are loading your toothbrush with bacteria. Short of using a disposable toothbrush what can you do to keep your toothbrush clean?

A Few Tips For A Cleaner Toothbrush

Bathrooms are small and toilet water sprays when you flush. Keep the toothbrush away from the toilet area of the bathroom.

Rinse your toothbrush after using in running water.

Let your toothbrush dry – don’t use a toothbrush cover that allows moisture to stay on the brush.

Store it upright in a container – laying down allows the bristles to pick up more bacteria.

No sharing your toothbrush. Ever. Period.

Toothbrush sanitizers are an option but most people don’t really need them. The majority of the bacteria on our toothbrushes won’t make us sick.

Change brushes every three months. Change more often if you have been sick or if the bristles look frayed.

Our bodies are filled with bacteria, in fact we couldn’t live without some of them, so don’t panic about your toothbrush. Keep oral bacteria in check by brushing, flossing and visiting your dental hygienist regularly.

Contact StoneRidge Dental Care in Columbus, OH today at 614-476-6696 to schedule your next visit. Keep brushing!