Bob Hayet, DMD

02/08/2023

How to Sanitize Your Toothbrush
By now, the routine of brushing your teeth is pretty instinctive. Rinse, add paste, brush, rinse and repeat. Pretty simple, right? However, there are a few more steps you can take if you are more concerned about the cleanliness of your toothbrushes. Here are some best practices covering toothbrush hygiene and advice on how to sanitize your toothbrush from the American Dental Association.

tooth-brush
Wash your hands before you brush your teeth and keep your bathroom vanity where you brush your teeth clean.
Don't share your toothbrush with anyone. Sharing your toothbrush can cause an exchange of microorganisms between people.
Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after each use to get rid of excess paste and any debris from your teeth.
Store your toothbrushes in an upright container and let them air dry. You don't want a moist toothbrush, which can promote microbial growth.
Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or sooner if you notice the bristles are getting worn out. (Your brushing may not be as effective if the bristles are worn out.)i
These basic steps to on how to disinfect your toothbrush and keep it clean are ones you probably already follow. You may be interested in taking an extra step to sanitize your toothbrush more completely. It has been proven that toothbrushes harbor bacteria, but there has not been proof that these types of bacteria cause adverse effects.ii Nonetheless, there is a study that has shown ways to greatly reduce the bacteria on your toothbrush.iii In the study, the bacteria was reduced by:

Soaking a toothbrush in three-percent hydrogen peroxide for twenty minutes every three days.iv
Or, soaking your toothbrush in an antibacterial mouthwash for twenty minutes every three days.iv
Make sure you don't mix different sanitizers or use industrial or household cleaning products to sanitize your toothbrush. Stick to these two sanitizing methods above and if in doubt, contact your dentist about any toothbrush hygiene concerns you may have. Make sure to never microwave toothbrushes or put them in the dishwasher, as such high heat may damage the brush.

08/24/2022

According to findings of a poll released by Delta Dental, the Tooth Fairy visited 79% of homes across the country with children ages 6-12.

01/20/2021

How often a day should you brush your teeth?
How often should you replace your toothbrush?

Watch the video to find out:

Brief video on the proper technique for brushing your teeth.For more information on brushing please visit http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/b/brushing...

01/15/2021

It's important to laugh, so each week we'll share some of our favorite jokes.

QUESTION: What does the dentist of the year get?......
A little plaque!

Share your favorite jokes in the comments below.

01/11/2021

When it comes to dental health, not all foods are related equal.

Don't worry! You don't have to give up chocolate. But do try some of these tips in the article below to keep your teeth happy and healthy:

URMC / Encyclopedia / Content Search Encyclopedia The Best and Worst Foods for Your Teeth If you are what you eat, that's even more true for your teeth and gums. When you drink and eat starchy or sugary foods, you're not only feeding yourself. You're also feeding the germs (bacteria) that can cause...

01/08/2021

"A study in a recent CDA Journal concludes that oral hygiene interventions and periodontal and dental treatment have the potential to decrease the oral bacterial burden and the systemic inflammatory response and therefore could decrease the severity and risk of COVID-19 respiratory problems."

Studies conducted around the world have linked periodontitis to respiratory conditions with an increased risk for complications and a higher mortality rate in hospitalized patients ― in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pneumonia and asthma, for example. Now, researchers are exa...

01/06/2021

What does a dental appointment look like now? Read the article below and schedule your next appointment today!

Dental offices already have a number of infection control procedures in place to protect staff and patients. Due to COVID-19, you may notice some additional steps being taken to protect you at your next dental appointment.

01/04/2021

"A pregnant woman has a lot to think about and prepare for as her body rapidly transforms. But often, mothers-to-be don't realize that all these hormonal changes can affect their oral health."

Read the article below to find out more!

Pregnancy hormones can affect a woman's body in many ways, but one lesser-known oral complication is a pregnancy tumor. Here's what you need to know.

09/08/2020

"It’s no secret that pandemic-related anxiety is affecting our collective mental health. That stress, in turn, leads to clenching and grinding, which can damage the teeth."

When I reopened my dental practice in early June, the tooth fractures started coming in: at least one a day, every single day that I’ve been in the office.

07/10/2020

Mistakes You’re Making With Antibacterial Wipes

"Some wipes, like the kind made with benzalkonium chloride, are only approved to kill bacteria. They might not work as well on viruses. Wipes with 'disinfectant' on the label should kill bacteria, viruses, and mold. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) keeps a list of approved disinfectants on its website. Check the product’s label for the EPA registration number."

Read more:

Antibacterial wipes are a quick and easy way to kill germs when you use them the right way. Learn the dos and don’ts.

06/19/2020

How to choose the right toothbrush? Find out here:

Choosing a toothbrush is more important than most people think. Learn the type of toothbrush you should use, when you should replace your toothbrush and more at Colgate.com.

05/05/2020

As of the moment, ADA has recommended to postpone elective procedures through May 15th at least to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. If you have any dental emergency, our lines and office are open to accommodate your situation. Your health and safety is important to us. Please call us at 732-548-6585 if you have an emergency.