The toothbrush is a vital tool for properly taking care of your teeth. Taking extra precautions to ensure that your entire family keeps their toothbrushes clean is one great way to fight germs and keep everyone healthy. Here are some tips to keep your mouth and your toothbrush clean. 
• One toothbrush should have one owner – If you share your toothbrush, you could also be sharing bodily fluids and bacteria, increasing your risk of infection. If you use an electric toothbrush, you can have one base unit and separate heads for family members – just ensure they don’t get mixed up!
• Toothbrushes need privacy, too – For the same reason, when storing brushes, make sure they are placed in such a way that they can’t touch each other.
• Give your toothbrush some space – Keep your brush in a clean, well-ventilated spot and make sure it has time to dry in between uses. Keeping your toothbrush in a closed, moist space regularly can encourage the growth of germs.
• Showering is good for your toothbrush – Before and after each use, rinse your toothbrush under running water to eliminate excess toothpaste and other residue. Rub your fingers along the bristles – but only after washing your hands; no use substituting one set of germs for another. When you’re finished, shake out the brush to accelerate drying.
• Let your toothbrush indulge in a nice bath – You may be able to reduce the amount of bacteria on your brush by soaking it in anti-bacterial mouthwash after use.
• Don’t get too attached to your toothbrush – change your old toothbrush or the head for a new one at least as often as every three months. Of course, if you’ve been sick with the flu, a cold, or a mouth infection, say goodbye to your toothbrush and move on to a new, germ-free one immediately.
Remember – What’s good for your toothbrush is good for your teeth!
