Prevent a Need for Long Island Peridontist, Take Care of Your Toothbrush

Daily brushing and flossing is one sure way everyone can easily help ensure the health of their gums. Dentists place a large emphasis on proper technique and frequency, among other recommendations for optimal oral health. However, daily brushing and flossing may not protect you from a Long Island Periodontist if you neglect to maintenance of your toothbrush.

Among the many benefits of regular brushing, rarely do we consider the spread of disease or the encouragement of gum disease hiding in those soft bristles. The fact of the matter is simple, when we have an illness the bacteria often spread through our saliva. When we brush our saliva gets mixed in with those bristles and may burrow deep to the bottom, making our toothbrush a potential habitat for illness.

In addition to the spread of illness harmful bacteria that lead to gum disease may be lurking in there too, waiting for us to swish that brush around our warm moist mouth. Once there the bacteria find the perfect environment to re-populate and begin to break down your gums.

So how can we confidently brush our teeth every day knowing of the potential bacteria hiding in our brush? Simple, there are a few simple measures you can take to reduce the growth of bacteria on your toothbrush including,

1. Never share your toothbrush,
2. Replace your toothbrush every 3 – 4 months,
3. Don’t share or re-use disinfectants used to clean toothbrushes,
4. Avoid using community toothbrush holders,
5. Don’t store your toothbrush in a closed, airtight container,
6. Clean the area you store your toothbrush in often,
7. Store your toothbrush in an upright position and allow it to dry.

Keeping your gums healthy and preventing the spread of disease can be as simple as maintaining your toothbrush. B y following a few practical tips you will be well on your way to a new, healthier you.

If you notice changes in the health of your gums schedule a detailed evaluation with your Long Island Periodontist. For patients seeking an alternative approach to treatment contact Dr. Scharf at (631) 661-6633 or visit him on the web at http://drscharf.com . He can treat gum disease with a laser rather than a scalpel.