How to Disinfect an Automatic Toothbrush
With the press of a button, the bristles of an automatic toothbrush rotate or move up and down, brushing your teeth without great effort on your part. Dental care products used to keep your teeth, gums and tongue clean are exposed to germs and bacteria. A regular toothbrush can be thrown out and replaced every month or so, or it can be sanitized. While you can't submerge an automatic toothbrush in sanitizing solution without ruining it, you can sanitize the brushing portion to promote good dental health.
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Instructions
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Wash your hands before touching your toothbrush to prevent passing germs. Wet your hands and lather them with soap. Wash for about 30 seconds to ensure you get your hands clean. Rinse, then dry, your hands with a towel.
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Remove the toothbrush portion from the handle portion of the automatic toothbrush according to directions. Set the handle portion aside.
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Turn on the faucet and run hot water over your toothbrush bristles. Move the bristles gently back and forth with your thumb to help loosen food particles. Finish with a cold water rinse to keep the brush bristles firm.
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Combine 1 cup of water with 2 tsp. of baking soda. Stir the toothbrush bristles around in the baking soda solution for 30 seconds weekly. Rinse the toothbrush with cool water.
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Towel-dry the brushing portion of the toothbrush. Secure both parts of the toothbrush together. Place your toothbrush in an automatic toothbrush stand or alternate holder and allow the bristles to air dry.
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Tips & Warnings
When purchasing your automatic toothbrush, purchase extra brush replacements so you can replace the brush every two to three months. Substitute a cup with hydrogen peroxide or antibacterial mouthwash for the baking soda mixture to disinfect your toothbrush.
If family members' toothbrushes are stored in the same place, ensure they have enough room and are not touching. This helps to reduce the spreading of germs.
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