UV Toothbrush Sanitizer

Parents concerned about the sanitary conditions inside their kids’ mouths may want to consider using the new UV Toothbrush Sanitizer. It reportedly kills 99% of germs and bacteria that can incubate on your toothbrush. According to a press release issued by Health Enterprises, makers of the toothbrush, the Sanitizer uses ultraviolet light to kill germs including E. coli, Salmonella and Streptococcus. The Sanitizer uses the same UV light technology commonly used to sanitize medical facilities. The Sanitizer can hold up to five toothbrushes, both manual and powered, is safe, effective and easy to use. It comes with an automatic shut-off … Continue reading

The Fluoride Debate

Fluoride is good for your teeth, right? Right… most of the time. What is fluoride, anyway? Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in soil and in many sources of water. It is used to fight cavities topically (as toothpaste or mouth wash, for example) and systemically (in drinking water or lozenges, for example). Topical fluoride is very effective in protecting teeth from cavities by helping repair damaged areas. Systemic fluoride may provide protection because it is absorbed into the body itself. There are lots of big health organizations that believe in the positive impact of fluoride on children and … Continue reading

The Basics for Brushing

Just because we brush every day (often twice a day) doesn’t mean we’re doing it right! Studies have shown that there are lots of people out there who have bad brushing habits. Here are some tips to help you get it right. Don’t brush too hard. You can actually hurt your teeth and gums this way. A thorough brushing takes two minutes or more — whether you use an electric toothbrush or a traditional one. Set a timer if you need to. Most people think they’re brushing long enough and they just aren’t. Those “Tooth Tunes” brushes are great for … Continue reading

A Healthy (and Sanitary) Bedroom and Bathroom

Where and how you store your stuff can make a big difference in how clean and healthy your bathroom and bedroom are. Here are some tips to keep things sanitary — and help keep you and your family healthy. For a clean and healthy bathroom: Move your toothbrush away from the sink. The best place to keep your toothbrush is in a cabinet, behind closed doors. Why? Even the cleanest toilet is full of microbes that can become airborne when you flush. Do you want toilet water landing on your toothbrush? (I don’t. I’m moving mine into a cabinet today.) … Continue reading

Oral Care for Pets — Why Is it Important?

My parents’ dog Becca (who I think of as my fur-sister) recently needed to have eight teeth removed. A year or so ago, the vet noticed that the teeth on one side of Becca’s mouth were dirtier than the teeth on the other side. He mentioned that a professional cleaning might be useful. But it wasn’t an urgent need, and my parents didn’t follow up. Fast forward to a few months ago. My mom starts to notice that Becca is only chewing on one side of her mouth. Could something be wrong with her teeth? My parents decide to mention … Continue reading