If you have the same habits as most people, the toothbrush you use every night to keep your mouth clean is probably not as clean as it may seem. Indeed, according to the Centers for Disease Control, "research suggests that the toothbrush could be contaminated with potentially pathogenic microorganisms even after being visibly rinsed." Fortunately, it is possible to make all kinds of worries about cleaning this instrument disappear by getting used to washing it thoroughly and storing it in the most appropriate way.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Store Your Toothbrush Properly
Step 1. Do not store your toothbrush in a closed container when you are at home
The humidity that forms inside will create a favorable environment for the proliferation of bacteria.
- Keep it in a container when you travel to prevent it from becoming a receptacle for dirt or bacteria. Make sure it is dry before putting on the protective cap or storing it in a case.
- Also, be sure to clean the protective cap regularly.
Step 2. Store your toothbrush upright
This will allow the water to run off the bristles and prevent the proliferation of bacteria between the trapped drops. If you put the toothbrush in a container, such as a glass, you will surely notice that frothy residues settle on the bottom. If you put it on its side or upside down, it will come into contact with those sediments.
Step 3. Store it at least 5-6cm away from the toilet
When you flush, tiny droplets of water containing fecal matter may leap from the toilet and settle on your toothbrush. While there isn't enough evidence to support these traces of bacteria causing health problems, it's best not to take any chances.
Step 4. Wash the toothbrush holder once a week
Bacteria that accumulate in the toothbrush holder can be transmitted to your oral cleaning tool and, therefore, to your mouth. Therefore, it is important to regularly clean the container especially if it is closed at the bottom, such as a glass.
Wash your toothbrush holder or glass with soap and water. Do not put it in the dishwasher unless specifically directed by the manufacturer. This ban, however, remains for the toothbrush
Step 5. Make sure the toothbrushes don't come into contact with each other
If you use your family to store toothbrushes in a single container, make sure they don't touch each other, otherwise there is a risk of transferring bacteria and body fluids from one toothbrush to another.
Part 2 of 3: Keeping the Toothbrush Clean Once Used
Step 1. Do not share the use of the toothbrush
Otherwise, an exchange of germs and body fluids will take place which could lead to infections.
Step 2. Wash your hands before using the toothbrush
It seems pretty obvious, but very often people grab the toothpaste tube directly before washing their hands.
Step 3. Wash it after each use
Rinse it with warm water after brushing your teeth. Make sure you remove all toothpaste and residue.
Step 4. Shake your toothbrush to dry after washing
The more humid it stays, the more it will create a favorable environment for bacteria to grow.
Step 5. Do not immerse in mouthwash or disinfectant solution
According to the American Dental Association, there is no clinical evidence to support the fact that dipping the toothbrush in an antibacterial mouthwash results in beneficial effects on oral health.
In addition, the US institution of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention adds that, by soaking it, there is a danger of cross-contamination if the same disinfectant substance is used for a certain period of time or for multiple toothbrushes
Step 6. Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months
It adopts the same measure even if it is electric. However, change it first if you notice that the bristles have bent or frayed.
Children's toothbrushes will likely need to be replaced more often than adult ones, as children can sometimes press too hard if they haven't learned how to use it properly yet
Part 3 of 3: Take Additional Precautions in Special Circumstances
Step 1. Take extra precautions if someone in your family is unwell
Throw away his toothbrush and anyone he has come into contact with to prevent the infection or disease from spreading.
Once it's healed, you could kill the germs that are likely to cause a relapse by soaking your toothbrush in antibacterial mouthwash for ten minutes. However, it would be better to replace it directly
Step 2. Take extra precautions if you have a compromised immune system or are particularly prone to getting sick
Even the most timid traces of bacteria can pose a danger to people with weakened immune systems, so it's a good idea to disinfect your toothbrush.
- Use antibacterial mouthwash before brushing your teeth. In this way you will be able to reduce the amount of bacteria that go to settle on the toothbrush when you use it.
- Rinse your toothbrush with antibacterial mouthwash before using it. This precaution will allow you to decrease the amount of bacteria deposited between the bristles.
- Replace your toothbrush more frequently than every 3-4 months. By doing this, you will be less exposed to bacteria over time.
- Consider purchasing a toothbrush sterilizer. Although studies do not show any particular benefits these devices offer, try to choose one of the most recommended brands. These appliances kill up to 99.9% of the bacteria present between the bristles. However, keep in mind that a true sterilization process involves the elimination of 100% of bacteria and living organisms - but no device on the market can guarantee this.
Step 3. Take extra precautions if you wear braces or other dental devices
Some studies show an increased presence of germs on toothbrushes used by people who wear dental devices. Therefore, rinse your toothbrush with antibacterial mouthwash before using it to reduce the amount of bacteria lodged between the bristles.
