That toothbrush hanging in your bathroom cabinet or next to your sink has a long history. People have been using one kind of toothbrush or another for as long ago as 5,000 years. Back in “the day” people would use the end of a stick to scrub the food particles from their teeth. The first mass-produced toothbrush was invented by a man by the name of William Addis, who was serving time in an English prison in 1770. He bored holes in a piece of bone and inserted bristles into it to create a toothbrush. He started toothbrush company that is still in business to this day. The toothbrush that we know, love and use came along in 1938.
You should keep your toothbrush to yourself. Sharing a toothbrush can spread germs and bacteria. Your toothbrush can also remain clean if you rinse it after each use, and store it upright in a place where it can dry out, and the air can get to it,
It’s fine to select a toothbrush in your favorite color, but it’s more important to make sure that it has soft bristles. Medium or firm bristles can damage your gums and tooth enamel.
Don’t get too caught up in the details. An electric toothbrush is just as good as a manual one; and brushing and flossing can be done in any order, as long as you do both well.
FInally, there’s the numbers game. You need to spend at least two minutes, twice a day brushing your teeth. And after three to four months, it will be time to retire your toothbrush and buy a new one.
Dr. Joel Manalese at Regal Dentistry is happy to talk with you about toothbrushes, as well as anything regarding oral health and your mouth and teeth. If you have questions. or it is time for a dental appointment, contact our office in Riverside, California, at 951-643-4405.