What most folks are missing in their oral care routine and why it’s so important

There are lots of jobs and tasks we should be doing as responsible adults but just don’t have the time or inclination for. Think your taxes, routine home maintenance, cleaning out the garage, or weeding the garden.

Yet, amidst all these responsibilities, a US emergency doctor has revealed the one thing people should absolutely be doing as part of their dental routine and it’s not what you think.

In a recent video, Dr Joe urges people to wash their toothbrushes with soap and water every month and cites some very worthwhile reasons.

“Washing your toothbrush with soap and water each night can significantly reduce the accumulation of bacteria, viruses, and fungi on its bristles and handle,” he explained.

“This practice helps prevent the introduction of bacteria, viruses and fungi in the mouth. Also, recent studies have suggested a link between oral bacteria and cardiovascular health, indicating that maintaining oral hygiene might also contribute to heart health.

“So, a clean toothbrush is more effective at removing plaque, which is crucial not only for dental health but potentially for preventing cardiovascular disease as well. It’s important to thoroughly rinse the toothbrush to remove any soap before use to ensure safety.”

@drjoe_md Washing your toothbrush with soap and water each night can significantly reduce the accumulation of bacteria, viruses, and fungi on its bristles and handle. This practice helps prevent the introduction of bacteria, viruses and fungi in the mouth. Also, recent studies have suggested a link between oral bacteria and cardiovascular health, indicating that maintaining oral hygiene might also contribute to heart health. So, a clean toothbrush is more effective at removing plaque, which is crucial not only for dental health but potentially for preventing cardiovascular disease as well. It’s important to thoroughly rinse the toothbrush to remove any soap before use to ensure safety. #dental #hearthealth #healthtips #healthyliving #doctor ♬ original sound – Dr. Joe, M.D. 🩺

The good doctor’s video revelation received decidedly mixed reactions with some adamant they would not be putting soap on their toothbrush.

“Not washing my toothbrush brush with soap. Not happening,” one person wrote.

“Ha! I don’t use soap and water but I do run it 1 min each under steaming hot water before and after use.”

“Soap?? Really?”

Other followers offered up their savvy ways to keep nasties off their toothbrush bristles.

“I soak mine in Listerine and then rinse it in the morning really well before I brush my teeth,” explained one follower.

“You won’t, just rinse in hot water. You’ll be fine. Honestly.”

“I put oregano oil on mine.”

“I use peroxide nightly to clean entire head of the brush. In a mouthwash cup fill to cover the toothbrush head and leave overnight!”

In another eye opening dental expose, Dr Cathryn Madden, head dentist at Bupa Dental, shed some light on how often a person should be replacing their toothbrush to maintain optimal oral health. 

While she said there’s no one-size-fits-all rule, a toothbrush should be replaced every three to four months or as soon as the head becomes “worn and bristly”.

“A toothbrush with bent or splayed bristles isn’t as effective at removing plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums,” she explains.

“This can lead to bacteria build-up, increasing the risk of developing cavities, gum disease and nasty infections in the mouth.

“A new toothbrush with medium-soft bristles will give you the best clean and will minimise any unwanted impact or scratching to enamel and gums.”