While most people do what they can to care properly for their teeth, they may not be taking proper care of the tools they use on them. This can end up giving them negative results that may surprise them. Here are some of the things you need to know about caring for your dental tools if you really want to keep your mouth as healthy as possible:

Caring for your toothbrush – You want to start by using the right toothbrush. Soft bristles are best for your teeth, as they won't do unnecessary damage to your enamel. Once the bristles begin to fray, it is time for you to replace the toothbrush. In the meantime, you can keep it clean by boiling it. You should also replace them after getting over an illness. Keep your toothbrush in a clean area, such as outside of the bathroom and don't cover it which helps it stay damp and promotes the growth of bacteria. Don't keep your toothbrush where it will rub or touch anyone else's toothbrush.

Caring for your toothpaste – You want to make sure you put the cap back on the toothpaste after every use, so germs and bacteria aren't attracted to it. Also, if you share your tube of toothpaste with other people, all of you should apply the toothpaste so it pulls away from the toothbrush as you are ending the application instead of rubbing the tube on the bristles which leads to the transference of germs.

Caring for your water pick – If you have a water pick that you use, then you also want to make sure you take proper care of it. If you are using a tip on your water pick that touches a part of your mouth, then you should let some water continue coming out of it after you are done using it. If you start to see some white developing on any of the tips, this can be calcium forming which is common with hard water. You can soak the affected tips in some white vinegar for a bit, then rinse them in clean water completely. You can use an extra toothbrush to scrub off stubborn calcium if you need to.

Caring for your tongue scraper – If you use a reusable tongue scraper, you want to rinse it before and after using it. You also want to store it in a dry place that is clean and don't cover it, just how you do with your toothbrush. You should replace your tongue scraper regularly, especially after you have had a cold or another illness. You can boil it between replacements in order to help keep it cleaner.

To learn more, contact a dental clinic like Port Orange Dentist. 

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