Like most things, you want to keep your toothbrush clean, right? Right. But how clean? If you want to sanitize it, there are gadgets and solutions for that. And they're great at cleaning your toothbrush. But cleaning or sanitizing it doesn't make your toothbrush 100% germ-free. Sorry. Sterilizing or disinfecting, on the other hand, does eliminate all bacteria on your brush. However, according to the American Dental Association (ADA), microbial mouthwash or hydrogen peroxide hasn't been found to disinfect your toothbrush effectively. The same goes for a dishwasher or microwave. And while a toothbrush cover may help protect your toothbrush from outside germs, it traps in moisture, leading to bacteria growth and not the good kind, according to the ADA. So — remove and throw away those covers.
We've learned that completely sterilizing your toothbrush can be difficult. And sanitizing, while feasible, is still somewhat challenging. But basic care for your toothbrush is very achievable. Some of these tips from the ADA you may already be doing regularly, and some you may be able to integrate into your toothbrush storage routine.
Similar to yogurt and your mouth, some bacteria are okay. In fact, the ADA has found that your toothbrush bacteria has not been proven to harm your oral health. So what exactly is the whole relationship between you and bacteria? Glad you asked. Here are a few things to know:
You now know not to use a cover on your toothbrush. But if you're undergoing a systemic disease, the flu, chemotherapy, or radiation and you're more prone to infections, additional measures to curb any bacteria exposure is recommended. Those additional measures include:
Should you cover your toothbrush? Nope. That's not the answer. But keeping your bathroom clean, maintaining good oral hygiene, and using good old common sense will go a long way in keeping your mouth and toothbrush fresh and clean. If you have any concerns, reach out to your dental care team. They'll be sure to uncover the truth on any oral health or toothbrush questions you may have.
This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
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