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Caring For Your Toothbrush

woman brushing teeth

You put your toothbrush inside your mouth at least twice a day, right? Well, have you ever stopped to think about how clean it actually is before using it? If you can’t remember the last time you replaced your toothbrush, or if your toothbrush is looking rather ratty, it is time to investigate how to properly care for it.

Below are helpful tips on caring for your toothbrush:

  • Rinse your toothbrush well. Your toothbrush is a tool that is designed to loosen plaque buildup from the teeth. While a good bit of this plaque will be expelled from your mouth when you spit and rinse, there will be some that gets trapped in the bristles of your toothbrush. By rinsing your toothbrush well under fast, running water after each use, you will help to rinse away bacteria-laden plaque so that you do not put it back into your mouth.
  • Allow your toothbrush to air dry. Bacteria thrive in moist environments, and your toothbrush provides an ideal environment each time you use it. In order to limit the growth of bacteria on your toothbrush, it is important to store it uncovered in an upright position so that it will air dry quickly. If you must cover your toothbrush for travel, make sure that it is completely dry before packing it.
  • Do not share your toothbrush. Remember, there will be some bacteria-laden plaque that will inevitably linger on your toothbrush. If you share your toothbrush, you are simply inviting someone else’s plaque into your own mouth – which is gross.
  • Keep your toothbrush away from the toilet. If your bathroom does not have a door separating the toilet from the rest of the room, it is incredibly important that you pay attention to where you keep your toothbrush. With every flush of the toilet, there is overspray that enters the air. This overspray contains urine and fecal matter, and it will land on anything in its path. By keeping your toothbrush as far away as possible, you can protect it, and yourself.
  • Replace your toothbrush often. The American Dental Association recommends that you replace your toothbrush every 3-6 months so that you have a clean tool to use for cleaning your mouth. This is the reason your dentist gives you a new toothbrush at each dental visit.
  • Replace your toothbrush after illness. Germs can linger on almost any surface for 7-10 days. If you have recently been ill with a cold, strep throat, the flu, a stomach virus, or another illness, it is important to replace your toothbrush after your symptoms begin to subside. Replacing your toothbrush prevents re-infection of the illness you just recovered from.

Posted on behalf of Peninsula Cosmetic & Family Dentistry

538 Savannah Hwy
Charleston, SC 29407

Phone: (843) 507-5481

FAX: (843) 577-4653

Email:

Monday - Thursday 8am - 5pm
Lunch break: 1pm - 2pm

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Our Patients Testimonials

Our Patients Reviews

Absolutely phenomenal dental office. Not only are the dentists outstanding at their craft but, like every person in the office, they are incredibly friendly and genuine. And that is so important. I earnestly recommend Peninsula if you are looking for the highest quality care, expertise and, equally important, quality people. I would give them 10 stars if I could.
Matthew W. L.
The BEST dentist. Megan the hygienist is always so professional and thorough! Every time I have a visit here the staff from the front desk to back are always so efficient and courteous. Dr. McPherson is an amazing dentist and always takes time to explain everything in a way that makes sense. I will only go to Peninsula for all my dental needs!
Dana M.
Excellent staff and excellent experience from entering until leaving. Dr. McPherson is terrific!! Her assistant Kate is very knowledgeable and caring. I felt like I had two dentist attending to me. This was my first visit to this practice. I’ll always remain a patient due to my experience
John C.

Meet Our Doctors

Dr. James B. Wisner

Dr. James B. Wisner was raised in Charleston and attended Porter-Gaud High School. He graduated from The Honors College at The University of South Carolina in 1996 and received his D.M.D. degree in 2002 from the Medical University of South Carolina’s College of Dental Medicine.

Dr. Wisner served in Las Vegas, Nevada and Spangdahlem, Germany as a Captain in the United States Air Force for three years where he completed an AEGD residency and was certified in Intravenous Conscious Sedation.

Dr. Caitlin McPherson

Dr. Caitlin McPherson was born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina. A graduate of Porter Gaud High School, she went on to receive her Bachelors of Science from Clemson University’s Calhoun Honors College. Dr. McPherson earned her Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina’s College of Dental Medicine. She is an active member of The American Dental Association and The Academy of General Dentistry.

Dr. McPherson performs all aspects of general dentistry and is Invisalign certified. Dr. McPherson especially enjoys treating pediatric patients.

Address

538 Savannah Hwy
Charleston, SC 29407

Phone (843) 507-5481
Fax (843) 577-4653
Email

Opening Hours

Monday - Thursday 8am - 5pm
Lunch break: 1pm - 2pm

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