--- title: A Guide to Toothbrush Care description: We all have our own tricks for brushing our teeth effectively, but sometimes the tool that does the cleaning can be overlooked. When it comes to toothbrush image: https://blod-dev.vbaplans.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/vba-toothbrushes_698x360-1.jpg --- Already have an Account? LOGIN X ### Select Line of Coverage: Vision Dental ### Select One: Member Administrator Provider Lab SIGN IN ![](https://blod-dev.vbaplans.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/vba-toothbrushes_698x360-1.jpg) We all have our own tricks for brushing our teeth effectively, but sometimes the tool that does the cleaning can be overlooked. When it comes to toothbrush care, we’ve compiled some key tips to keep in mind. When shopping for toothbrushes, we know there are lots of options. An important feature to look for in a [manual toothbrush](https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/toothbrushes) is one with soft bristles, as they minimize the risk of gingival (gum) abrasion. Oftentimes, people wonder whether manual or powered toothbrushes are better, but it’s simply a matter of preference. [Powered toothbrushes](https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/toothbrushes) are especially helpful for those with dexterity difficulties and those who have dental appliances, such as braces. Whether you’re looking for a manual or powered toothbrush, be sure to find one that meets ANSI/ADA standards. Once you’ve found the right toothbrush for you, it’s important to take proper care of it to ensure your teeth are getting the best cleaning possible. After each use, make sure to [rinse your toothbrush](https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/toothbrushes) with [hot water](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/wash-it-soak-it-pitch-it-4-tips-for-a-clean-toothbrush/) to get rid of any remaining paste and debris. When storing your toothbrush, make sure to keep it in an [open-air holder](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/wash-it-soak-it-pitch-it-4-tips-for-a-clean-toothbrush/), not in a contained space. Keeping it in open, fresh air will reduce the risk of mold or bacteria growth, which can lead to oral infections and diseases. Lastly, it’s imperative to replace your toothbrush frequently. There are varying answers when it comes to exactly how often you should replace your toothbrush, but a simple mantra to use is, “[when in doubt, throw it out](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/wash-it-soak-it-pitch-it-4-tips-for-a-clean-toothbrush/).” Replacing your toothbrush is especially crucial when you’re sick or have an oral infection. When it comes to your oral hygiene it’s always better to err on the side of caution. If it you notice any discoloration, buildup or matted bristles, it’s probably a sign to toss it. Ideally you should replace your toothbrush every few months. ## Related Articles [![](https://blod-dev.vbaplans.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/adobestock_303308601-1.jpeg) ](https://blod-dev.vbaplans.com/test-the-minds-eye-mkii/blog/post/how-heart-health-and-oral-health-are-connected) [Hygiene and Health](https://blod-dev.vbaplans.com/test-the-minds-eye-mkii/tag/hygiene-and-health) [Tips and Tricks](https://blod-dev.vbaplans.com/test-the-minds-eye-mkii/tag/tips-and-tricks) [Dental](https://blod-dev.vbaplans.com/test-the-minds-eye-mkii/tag/dental) ### [How Heart Health and Oral Health Are Connected](https://blod-dev.vbaplans.com/test-the-minds-eye-mkii/blog/post/how-heart-health-and-oral-health-are-connected) When it comes to keeping your heart healthy, the first things that come to mind may be eating a balanced diet and exercising. Those are certainly two important factors... 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[Matthew Cuomo](https://blod-dev.vbaplans.com/test-the-minds-eye-mkii/author/matthew-cuomo) [Read More](https://blod-dev.vbaplans.com/test-the-minds-eye-mkii/blog/post/the-benefits-of-a-single-carrier) #### Stay in Touch Sign up to receive the latest news and information from VBA. ![VBA Plans of America logo](https://www.vbaplans.com/assets/images/VBA-Logo.png) Vision Benefits of America 400 Lydia Street, Suite 300 Carnegie, PA 15106 [1-800-432-4966](tel:8004324966) ##### [VISION](https://www.vbaplans.com/vision) ##### [DENTAL](https://www.vbaplans.com/dental) ##### [COMPANY](https://www.vbaplans.com/about-us) ##### FOLLOW © 2021 VBA ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Jennifer Stech", "url" : "https://blod-dev.vbaplans.com/test-the-minds-eye-mkii/author/jennifer-stech" }, "dateModified" : "2023-12-08T18:31:06.419Z", "datePublished" : "2022-03-18T04:00:00.000Z", "headline" : "A Guide to Toothbrush Care", "image" : [ "https://blod-dev.vbaplans.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/vba-toothbrushes_698x360-1.jpg" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://blod-dev.vbaplans.com/test-the-minds-eye-mkii/blog/post/a-guide-to-toothbrush-care", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://blod-dev.vbaplans.com/hubfs/VBA_RGB-1.png" }, "name" : "Vision Benefits of America" } } ```