Newsletter

CHANGING YOUR TOOTH BRUSH:

Cold and flu season has officially kicked off. If you want to stay healthy, practicing good oral hygiene habits is more important than ever – this includes good toothbrush hygiene. 

The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush at least every three to four months. When bristles become frayed and worn with use, cleaning effectiveness decreases. Toothbrushes will wear out more rapidly depending on factors unique to each patient. Check brushes often for this type of wear and replace more frequently if needed. Children’s toothbrushes often need to be replaced more frequently than adult brushes. 

Other best practices for toothbrush hygiene include:

• Do not share toothbrushes. Sharing a toothbrush could result in an exchange of body fluids and/or microorganisms between the users of the toothbrush, placing the individuals involved at an increased risk for infections. This practice could be a particular concern for persons with compromised immune systems or existing infectious diseases.
  

• Thoroughly rinse toothbrushes with tap water after brushing to remove any remaining toothpaste and debris. Store the brush in an upright position if possible and allow the toothbrush to air-dry until used again. If more than one brush is stored in the same holder or area, keep the brushes separated to prevent cross-contamination.
  

• Do not routinely cover toothbrushes or store them in closed containers. A moist environment such as a closed container is more conducive to the growth of microorganisms than the open air.
  
  Source: American Dental Association

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GUM DISEASE AND OSTEOPOROSIS:

A new study in the June 2007 Journal of Periodontology found postmenopausal women infected with four species of periodontal bacteria were more likely to have oral bone loss, even after adjusting for smoking, age and income.

Osteoporosis is a common metabolic bone disease characterized by low bone mass and fragility, especially for postmenopausal women. It can also occur in men and is commonly associated with a decrease in bone mineral density.

The study supports the findings of previous research that identified an association between postmenopausal osteoporosis and tooth loss, along with alveolar bone loss.

Patients should be aware that osteoporosis has several modifiable risk factors, including smoking, inadequate dietary calcium and estrogen deficiency. Anyone suspected of being at risk for osteoporosis (based on medical history, including risk factors, and results of clinical and X-ray examination) should refer to their primary-care physician for a complete health assessment.

Source: Wisconsin Dental Association