Read on for more information on whether you should start sanitizing your toothbrush.
Since your toothbrush only goes in your mouth anyways, and since you are putting toothpaste on it to keep your teeth clean, you don’t really need to clean it, right? Sanitizing your toothbrush might seem like an optional thing, but are you putting your oral health at risk by not sanitizing?
The American Dental Association’s Recommendation
The American Dental Association has done multiple studies relating to toothbrush sterilization and has determined that no commercial product can actually sterilize a toothbrush to the point that it makes a difference. There is no substantial evidence showing that bacterial growth on toothbrushes has any effect on your oral health at all.
What Should You Do to Keep Your Toothbrush Clean?
Since the American Dental Association has proven toothbrush sanitizing to be ineffective, you should use another method to keep your toothbrush clean. Bacteria typically flourish in dark, warm, and wet places. If you store your toothbrush in a closed or dark container, that could potentially encourage bacterial growth. Always let your toothbrush air dry once you are done with it and ensure that it stands up straight without touching any other toothbrushes. Always replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months.
When you finish using your toothbrush, rinse it with warm water to make sure that no toothpaste, food debris, and bacteria are not lingering in between the bristles. If you want to sanitize your toothbrush anyways, submerge the head of the toothbrush in a cup of strong mouthwash for about 15 minutes. If you let it soak for longer, you might damage the bristles. Always dispose of the mouthwash you use for toothbrush sanitizing.
Is Sanitizing Your Toothbrush Ever a Good Idea?
In rare cases, sanitizing a toothbrush might be worth it. If someone in your family is suffering from a cold or virus, throw their toothbrush away once they are feeling better and soak the toothbrush every night in mouthwash. Sanitizing is never a bad thing when someone in the house is feeling under the weather and potentially carrying dangerous bacteria.
You Can Trust Olney Dental for All of Your Oral Health Needs
For all of your oral care questions and concerns, Olney Dental has the expertise and professionalism to get them the answers they need. Olney Dental is ready to supply you with expert service in a professional environment. Schedule an appointment online today! For more information on how we can give your family the best dentist experience available, give us a call at (301) 250-1057 or contact us online. For more dental tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, YouTube, and Pinterest.