Brushing after each meal or snack is a great way to prevent cavities. If your toothbrush is frayed at the ends, you should consider replacing it. Let your toothbrush air-dry in between uses so you don't get bacteria growing in it. Tap the water off and make sure you don't leave food or toothpaste on the brush. Never share a toothbrush with someone else and change it even more frequently if you have been sick. More on this in our Preventive Dentistry Section.

For general purpose cleaning. Buy a variety of stiffnesses. Available at local grocery and thrift stores, or in bulk at very good prices from Henry Schein, Inc. Bulk prices average $9.00 for 12 toothbrushes.

a cleaning tool that brushes away dust or little things that need to be brushed away.