Many daily used toothbrushes may not be clean. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control, "Several studies have shown that toothbrushes can remain contaminated with pathogenic organisms even after rinsing until they look clean." Fortunately, with proper cleaning and storage, your worries about the cleanliness of your toothbrush can be put aside.
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Part 1 of 3: Storing Toothbrushes Properly
Step 1. Do not store toothbrushes in closed containers
The moisture in the closed container creates a great environment for bacterial growth.
- To avoid getting dust or bacteria, keep your toothbrush in a container when you travel. Make sure that your toothbrush is dry before storing it in its case or case.
- Also make sure to clean the toothbrush guard regularly. Chlorhexidine (which is in mouthwash) is the best antibacterial agent for cleaning the container.
Step 2. Store your toothbrush upright
In addition to making the water in the bristles dry, this will also keep the toothbrush away from bacteria that are in the remaining water. If your toothbrush is stored in a container such as a cup, you may see a buildup of foam underneath. If you store it sideways or perpendicular to the bristles below, the toothbrush will be exposed to the foam.
Step 3. Keep the toothbrush at least 60 cm from the toilet
When flushing the toilet, small particles of water containing feces may come out of the toilet and hit the toothbrush if the toothbrush is kept too close to the toilet. Although there is not enough evidence to show that the bacteria present in it cause disease, it's best to take these preventive measures for safety's sake.
Step 4. Clean the toothbrush storage case once every week
Bacteria that build up in the toothbrush storage container can spread to your toothbrush and mouth. This cleaning is especially important to do regularly if the bottom of the container is closed like a cup.
Clean the toothbrush storage container with soapy water. Do not wash it in the dishwasher unless the toothbrush is dishwasher safe. Never store the toothbrush itself in the dishwasher
Step 5. Never allow toothbrushes to come into contact with each other
If you store multiple toothbrushes in one container, make sure they don't touch each other to prevent the spread of bacteria and body fluids.
Part 2 of 3: Keeping Your Toothbrush Clean
Step 1. Don't use someone else's toothbrush
If the toothbrush is used by more than one person, germs and body fluids may also spread and cause infection.
Step 2. Wash your hands before using a toothbrush
Although it seems trivial, many people often brush their teeth immediately without washing their hands first.
Step 3. Wash the toothbrush after use
Rinse the toothbrush with hot water after using it to brush your teeth. Be sure to remove any remaining toothpaste and dust.
Step 4. Dry the toothbrush that has been used for brushing your teeth
The wetter the toothbrush, the greater the risk of the toothbrush being exposed to bacteria.
Step 5. Do not dip the toothbrush in mouthwash or disinfectant solution
According to the American Dental Association, there is no clinical evidence of the impact of immersing a toothbrush in antibacterial mouthwash on oral health.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also adds that dipping a toothbrush with disinfectant can lead to cross-contamination if you use the same disinfectant over a period of time, or use a disinfectant that is shared by several people
Step 6. Change your toothbrush every 3-4 months
If you use an electric toothbrush, replace the brush head every 3-4 months. Replace in less time if the bristles are bent or tangled, or if the color of the bristles has faded.
Children's toothbrushes may need to be changed more often than adult toothbrushes, as children often haven't learned how to best care for their teeth and may use them too hard
Part 3 of 3: Taking Precautions Under Certain Circumstances
Step 1. Take precautions if anyone in your household is sick
Throw away their toothbrushes and toothbrushes that come in contact with the toothbrush to prevent disease from spreading.
Dipping a toothbrush in an antibacterial mouthwash for 10 minutes after your illness has healed can kill germs that could cause the disease to recur. However, it would be better if you replace the toothbrush
Step 2. Take extra precautions if you have a compromised immune system or are prone to illness
A little residual bacteria can also be dangerous for people who have a compromised immune system. So, it is recommended that you clean it with a disinfectant.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash before brushing your teeth. This can help reduce the amount of bacteria on your toothbrush when you brush your teeth.
- Rinse your toothbrush with an antibacterial mouthwash before using it to brush your teeth. This can reduce the amount of bacteria that accumulates on the toothbrush.
- Replace your toothbrush more often than every 3-4 months. Over time, this can reduce your risk of catching the bacteria.
- Try using a toothbrush sanitizer. Although studies don't show any particular benefit of this device, you can buy an FDA-approved sanitizer. Toothbrush sanitizer kills up to 99.9% of the bacteria on the toothbrush. (Sterilization means that 100% of the bacteria and living organisms are dead, and no commercial toothbrush cleaner claims this).
Step 3. Take extra precautions if you wear braces or other appliances
Studies show that people who wear tools on their teeth have more germs on their toothbrushes. Rinse your toothbrush with an antibacterial mouthwash before using it to brush your teeth to reduce the amount of bacteria that builds up on your toothbrush.
