Do you have a large bottle of expired mouthwash or a frayed toothbrush on your bathroom counter that you’re still using? You can get a head start on spring cleaning and optimize your oral health by replacing expired hygiene products that you should no longer be using. Read on for a list of dental tools that you should regularly replace, and how you can pick out new products that are easier and more effective to use.
Dental Hygiene Products That Should Be Regularly Replaced
If you’re not regularly replacing dental products in your bathroom, it could become an issue for your oral health. Knowing when to throw out old toothbrushes, mouthwash, toothpaste, and dental floss is an important part of preventing bacteria transfer and keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Even some products that are in the packaging may not be good to use in your mouth. As you begin to clean out your bathroom cupboard, be on the lookout for some of the following products:
- Even certain long-lost tubes of toothpaste that haven’t been opened may not be a good idea to use. When the expiration date on the packaging has passed, the fluoride and minty fresh flavor of the toothpaste is lost. That’s why it’s best to use it before two years after the manufacture date.
- Toothbrushes that have been opened and used need to be replaced every three months to prevent bacteria buildup that can cause sickness and oral health problems to develop. Another sign that your toothbrush needs to be replaced is if the bristles are frayed.
- Most mouthwashes contain alcohol as an active ingredient. After a few years past the manufacture date, it dissolves in water (another main ingredient in mouthwash) and becomes less effective. So, if you’re swishing with expired mouthwash, it may not be benefitting your teeth and gums.
- While unused and unopened dental floss doesn’t expire, the longer you leave opened floss on your bathroom counter, the more germs, bacteria, and dust will collect on it. This can increase your risk of developing oral health problems.
Tips For Replacing Your Old Dental Tools With New Ones
After your spring cleaning spree, it’ll be time to replace your old and expired oral hygiene products with new ones. Nowadays, there are several dental tools that you can buy from the store to make daily brushing and flossing faster and more effective than ever. To learn which ones are best for your mouth, it’s a good idea to ask your dentist for recommendations. Otherwise, some great new tools to stock your bathroom with include:
- A water flosser
- A sonic or electric toothbrush
- Dental floss picks
- Protective sterile pods to keep your toothbrush germ-free
Knowing when to replace dental products can help reduce your risk of developing problems such as oral sores, gum disease, and cavities. When you upgrade the tools you use to clean your mouth, you’ll be able to keep your teeth and gums healthier than ever.
About the Author
Dr. Kimberly Dennis received her Doctorate of Dental Medicine in 2015, and has been providing her patients with thorough preventive dental care ever since. She is always looking to advance her skills and knowledge, which is why she regularly pursues additional education courses. By doing this, she has achieved her certificate in Prosthodontics as well as a Master of Science in Oral Biology. For questions or to schedule a checkup and cleaning, visit Brown & Nawrocki Restorative & Cosmetic Dentistry’s website or call 386-677-1046.