When I first moved to Queensland I was amazed to discover electric blankets for sale in retail stores. Surely one would never need an electric blanket in sunny warm Queensland? However, over the past few weeks, I have had the odd occasion to pop on the electric blanket for ten minutes just before going to bed. Now I know it’s true …acclimatization does really exist.
Furthermore, as the Sunshine Coast mornings get colder and I contemplate various friends around me, some of whom have recently succumbed to a cold or flu virus I offer this important advice…When you are feeling better REPLACE your toothbrush … this means after ANY illness, cold, flu, or mouth infection.
Other toothbrush tips include using a toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles. Even consider using a child’s size toothbrush to reach the very back of your molar teeth especially if you have a small mouth. Electric toothbrushes are excellent, brush more efficiently and massage the gums too. Remember to brush your tongue too to keep your breath fresh.
Ideally clean your teeth, gums and tongue every night and morning.
Replace toothbrushes when they become “shaggy” and definitely replace them every season ie summer, autumn, winter and spring. This applies to manual or electric toothbrush heads.
You should have your own toothbrush; don’t use anyone else’s. It’s better not to brush for a day, rather than share a toothbrush. Tooth decay and gum disease bacteria are easily spread from person to person by sharing drink bottles, or toothbrushes.
Babies are born with no tooth decay bacteria. They are infected by sharing adult drink bottles, cutlery, toothbrushes etc.
On that note, store toothbrushes separately so they do not touch other toothbrushes.
Store toothbrushes in a clean, dry, airy place so that they will dry out between use.
After brushing, the toothbrush should be rinsed well under fast-running water to remove food particles, plaque and toothpaste remnants. Shake dry to remove excess water which helps the drying.
Toothbrush design has evolved a long way since William Addis created the first mass-produced toothbrush in 1780.
In Australia now, over 30 million toothbrushes are used and disposed of every year. However, before you give up on tooth brushing forever, note that an Australian female dentist Dr Natalya Taylor has designed and produced a biodegradable bamboo toothbrush ( www.environmentaltoothbrush.com.au) Happy brushing!
Smile by Design
102 Wises Rd Maroochydore 4558
54432888
