Caring For Your Electric Toothbrush
It’s been found that electric toothbrushes do a better job of cleaning when compared to a manual toothbrush. A study conducted found that plaque and gingivitis were significantly reduced after switching to electric toothbrush use. After just three months, there was a 21 percent reduction in plaque, and an 11 percent reduction in gingivitis.
Our Dentists and Dental Hygienists recommend electric brushes to many of our patients. This is because we regularly see what a great job they do when used properly. However, using an electronic toothbrush is a little different than brushing with a manual brush. We’ve broken down what you need to know about caring for an electronic toothbrush below.
Cleaning Your Electric Toothbrush
The average toothbrush harbors around 10 million bacteria, so it is important to give it a good clean every now and then! Just as you change and clean the head on your electric toothbrush, cleaning and caring for the electrical base is just as important. We’ve broken down a few easy steps to follow when cleaning your electrical base:
To clean the base, unplug it and run a cloth or paper towel along its surface with a mild cleanser or bleach solution. Using a cotton swab dipped in the same mild cleaning solution, clean the area where the head attaches, ensuring to remove all dirt and buildup. The base and toothbrush head should be thoroughly rinsed with warm tap water every few days to remove any excess toothpaste and germs. Change the head of your electric toothbrush every 3-4 months, or once the bristles begin to fray.
Doing an occasional deep clean of your electric toothbrush is just as important as regular cleaning.
Dentist Tip: Be sure to rinse your toothbrush with hot water once after brushing for the night. Otherwise, bacteria has a chance to grow and you might actually put old bacteria back in your mouth the next morning!
Charging your electric toothbrush
To ensure longest amount of battery life possible for your electric toothbrush, take proper care of its battery. While different brands and battery care my vary, After the handle is fully charged, continue to use your electric toothbrush until there is no charge left. Fully charge it again, and repeat, rather than charging it between each use. While different brands and battery care my vary, this is generally the best way to care for the battery and ensure it lasts to its full potential.
Traveling With Your Electric Toothbrush
When traveling with your electric toothbrush on a plane, it is important to be mindful of TSA rules and regulations. Some electric toothbrushes have removable batteries, while others have integrated batteries. TSA has banned portable chargers or items that contain a lithium ion battery from checked bags because batteries can occasionally malfunction.
Each airline varies on specific rules, and the lines have become a bit blurred when it comes to electric toothbrushes. To be safe, we recommend carrying your electric toothbrush in your carry on bag instead of your checked bag. To be extra safe and avoid anything happening to your electric toothbrush, travel with a manual brush just in case!
Replacing the Head on Your Electric Toothbrush
Frequently replacing your toothbrush head is just as important as regular cleaning of your toothbrush. Change your toothbrush head every 3 months, or sooner if wear has become visible.
Toothbrush Storage Matters
Where you store your toothbrush matters! When storing your electric toothbrush, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure cleanliness and longevity of the device.
If you are someone who likes to store your electric toothbrush in a plastic, airtight container– don’t! While your toothbrush dries between uses in an airtight container, it is also encouraging the growth of mold (yuck)! Instead, store your toothbrush in a place where air can reach and properly dry the entire toothbrush.
Bonus Dentist Tip: Store your toothbrush in an out of the way place, but not inside a container (which is also a breeding ground for germs) and make sure you store it standing up.
Also, when it comes to storing your toothbrush, be sure to keep it away from the toilet in your bathroom and away from any other toothbrushes. Maintaining proper cleaning and storage habits will lengthen the life of your toothbrush, and also reduce the risk of you getting sick.
If you have any questions about the care of your electric toothbrush, comment below or call our office at 804-262-1060. Happy Brushing!
