A toothbrush is an item with which we interact daily. Therefore, cleaning it will greatly affect our bodily health. There are many diseases that find their way through the mouth and infect the body.
In this article, we intend to evaluate several healthy methods for preventing toothbrush contamination.
Avoid Placing the Toothbrush Next to the Toilet
You should never place your toothbrush close to the toilet, since according to expert research, there are plenty of microbes in the toilet bowl that can move up to two meters. If, however, there is a door between the toilet and the wash basin, there are no concerns whatsoever.
Toothbrushes
Washing the Toothbrush
Make sure to rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after brushing so that the remaining toothpaste is cleaned off.
Since bacteria largely favor moist environments, try to keep your toothbrush dry. It is preferable to not use the toothbrush cap after brushing as it prevents the toothbrush from drying and keeps it moist, thus accelerating bacterial growth on the toothbrush.
Place the toothbrush vertically
Always place your toothbrush vertically and never place it on a surface. You can place your toothbrush vertically inside a cup.
Don’t use other people’s toothbrushes
A toothbrush is a personal item and one should never use someone else’s, or let others use their own. Fortunately, most people follow this rule!
Regularly change the toothbrush
Try to regularly change your toothbrush if possible, because a number of bacteria and microbes will still land on it no matter how thorough you are at maintaining it. Eventually, the bristles wear out over time and become ineffective. It is also recommended to use a new toothbrush at least every three months.
At what intervals should the toothbrush be changed?
Regularly changing one’s toothbrush is the best way to reduce toothbrush bacteria. The American Dental Association suggests changing one’s toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. If the toothbrush’s bristles are worn, or you have a condition and a weak immune system, you should regularly change your toothbrush. If you have an electric toothbrush, change its head with the same duration.
If you desire a beautiful smile, we suggest contacting Dr. Jamilian’s clinic in order to estimate the costs of orthodontics.
Frequently asked questions about how to take care of a toothbrush
1-Where is the best place to keep a toothbrush?
Keep your toothbrush in a dry and clean place like the cabinets and closets. Try not to keep your toothbrush in places where bacteria can grow well due to moisture which delays the toothbrush getting completely dry.
2-How do the bacteria inside the toothbrush damage our teeth?
Bacteria can cause gum diseases, tooth decays and smelly breath. Bacteria can easily enter the bloodstream from the mouth, leading into infections and inflammation.
3-Is the sink a suitable place to keep the toothbrush?
No, the kitchen sink is a place to wash and clean dirt, bacteria and food. If you put your toothbrush there, bacteria will eventually accumulate on the toothbrush and making the sink a relatively bad place to keep a toothbrush.
4-How should we keep our toothbrush clean?
Before each brushing, wash your hands with warm water and soap. Do this after brushing, and be careful in washing your toothbrush with warm water. Then rinse it with cold water and put it in its proper place.
5-Are home toothbrush disinfectants as suitable as toothbrush disinfectants?
Most home disinfection methods like putting a toothbrush in vinegar or boiling water are just as effective as disinfectants.
6-How should we disinfect our toothbrush with hydrogen peroxide solution 3%?
Pour a small cup of hydrogen peroxide solution 3% until the head of the toothbrush is in the solution. Disinfect your toothbrush with that solution every time or every night. It is better to change the solution every night.