Toothbrushes must be kept clean to remove plaque and keep teeth and gums healthy. Toothbrush storage is essential for keeping your oral hygiene clean. Keep your toothbrush safe at home and when traveling. Doing so can keep your mouth clean and healthy.
According to researchers, your toothbrush contains approximately 100 million microorganisms. Besides, fecal germs were also identified on your toothbrushes. Your mouth is also full of bacteria. But don’t worry! There are steps you can take to stay clean and remain healthy.
But, what exactly are antimicrobial toothbrushes?
The antimicrobial brush bristles are believed to contain antimicrobial chemicals such as Ag and Zn. These hinder the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and yeast. The majority of which was in particle form. Antimicrobial bristles have improved bactericidal characteristics.
This includes nanoparticle retention, microbial adhesion, and bactericidal activity. These are all influenced by surface topography. Its properties are influenced by the bioavailability of Ag or Zn at the bristle surface. And take note, this is governed by Ag or Zn concentration alone.
Are toothbrush sanitizers effective?
Products that claim to sterilize your toothbrush are available. Some use UV light, while others use sprays or rinses. Brushes with antimicrobial bristles are also available. While some of these products do destroy germs, no proof using them reduces your chance of getting sick.
Soaking your toothbrush in an antibacterial can help cut the number of bacteria on it. Make sure you don’t put your toothbrush in the microwave or dishwasher to sanitize it. Most toothbrushes are not designed to endure these circumstances, according to the ADA. Doing so could harm the brush and diminish its efficacy.
Do toothbrush sanitizers with UV light work?
The bacteria are zapped by UV light’s cleaning capability. This sanitizing procedure does not boost its efficacy—it can still only kill up to 99.99 percent of bacteria. UV and heat are two bacteria-killers. But it has the potential to quadruple your sense of security.
Is it possible that your toothbrush is making you sick?
Your toothbrush is unlikely to give you an illness. Your immune system can handle any bacterial intruders, even if your brush is covered in microorganisms. You should take excellent care of your toothbrush and keep it clean.
So, it’s essential to know how to take good care of your toothbrushes and how to store them properly to reduce the risk of infection.
Brushing where you flush is not a good idea
It’s crucial to know where you keep your toothbrush in your bathroom. The toilet is usually located near the sink, which is where most people keep their toothbrushes. When you flush, bacteria are released into the air, which you don’t want on your toothbrush.
Did you know that bacteria carried by toilet flushing can also be picked up by toothbrush holders? Yes, it is! Brush holders are the third most common type of germy daily thing. As a result, it’s critical to clean your toothbrush holder regularly to keep bacteria at bay.
Storage ideas for toothbrushes
Here are some storage ideas to keep your toothbrush as germ-free as possible.
Every time you use your toothbrush, fully rinse it with tap water.
Between brushings, make sure your toothbrush is completely dry. Use toothbrush covers sparingly. They might create wet, enclosed breeding habitats for bacteria.
Rather than laying your toothbrush down, keep it upright in a holder.
Never borrow someone else’s toothbrush or allow someone else to borrow yours.
Separate your toothbrushes. When toothbrushes come into contact, germs can be transferred.
Keep your toothbrush holder clean at all times.
Regularly clean your toothbrush and its holder
Cleaning them regularly will remove dust, bacteria, and dried toothpaste from your products. You can clean the holder in the dishwasher, with sanitizing wipes, or with soap and water, depending on the type of holder. Keep in mind that brushing your teeth with a clean toothbrush is good for your dental health.
The most sanitary way to store your toothbrush is in a clean holder that allows airflow to dry the toothbrush. It won’t be contaminated by germs from the restroom. Doing so can keep your toothbrush clean and well-sanitized. Remember, keeping it in a sanitary manner can prevent the buildup of bacteria in the bristles.
Bottom Line
With proper mouth hygiene, you can cut back on bacteria-causing infections and other issues. Remember, commercial toothbrush sanitizers can be useful. It can prevent hazardous oral bacteria from wreaking havoc in your mouth. But, if you don’t have a toothbrush sanitizer, you can still keep your brush bacteria-free.
There are a lot of simple ways to do so. It’s entirely up to you how you want to disinfect your brush. Whatever you choose, your toothbrush can be a model of hygienic cleanliness.
FAQs
What is the maximum amount of time germs can survive on a toothbrush?
It can take weeks for viruses and bacteria from an infected person’s mouth to live on the surface of a toothbrush. This can make the person sick.
What infections can be contracted through the sharing of a toothbrush?
To put it another way, if you share your toothbrush, you might as well be sharing blood and saliva. This is a major problem since you could be infected with blood-borne viruses like herpes and hepatitis.
Is it okay to put hydrogen peroxide on your toothbrush?
Rinse your toothbrush in warm water for 15 seconds after each use. Then, store it upright to air dry and avoid putting it in a cupboard or drawer. Bacteria thrive in dark, wet settings. Soak your toothbrush for 3-5 minutes in hydrogen peroxide. Then thoroughly rinse with hot water.
Is it necessary to use soap to clean your toothbrush?
If you use a cover to store your toothbrush, be sure it allows it to dry completely between uses. More bacteria can be found on a wet toothbrush. Also, keep the toothbrush cover clean by washing it with soap and water regularly.
Why is it considered impolite to share toothbrushes?
Streptococcus mutants are discovered on toothbrushes. This is a dangerous bacterium that causes infections and tooth rot. It can even cause serious diseases. Even worse, when you share a toothbrush, the number of bacteria on it grows with each usage. It will increase your chances of contracting a dangerous infection.
Are toothbrush covers safe to use?
It may appear more hygienic to slide a beautiful little cover on your toothbrush after cleaning your teeth, but it is not a healthy practice. Moisture collects in the toothbrush cap. This prevents the bristles from drying off and encourages bacterial development.