Cleaning a Toothbrush
Toothbrush care is something that is neglected worldwide. Neglected toothbrush cleaning can have detrimental results on human health. In addition to the bacterial species, studies have found the presence of the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) on toothbrushes. This virus is capable of causing infections which is why toothbrush hygiene must be taken seriously.
By the time you’ll reach the end of this article, you’ll have complete knowledge of all the methods of cleaning and disinfecting your toothbrush.
How to clean a manual toothbrush?
There are multiple ways of doing so:
1. Boiling water: Boil your toothbrush for 3 minutes. This will eliminate a major chunk of microbes on your bristles.
2. Using a UV toothbrush sanitizer:
Research published in the Journal of Oklahoma Dental Association proves that the toothbrush sanitizer is effective against bacteria, viruses, and yeast. Furthermore, it also proves that a toothbrush sanitizer can eliminate Herpes Simplex Virus and Parainfluenza Virus. Thus, it is regarded as the best method of toothbrush cleaning.
One such sanitizing device is offered at Oclean with a lot of positive feedback from its users.
3. Dipping your toothbrush in a mouthwash:
The second best method of toothbrush cleaning is dipping it into a mouthwash. Research has shown that this method is effective against microbes. However, there are two downsides associated with this method:
· This method does not work against viruses.
· Soaking time must be 20 minutes to eliminate all the bacteria.
· This method is not cost-effective because you’ll have to buy a new mouthwash more often.
4. Dipping your toothbrush in hydrogen peroxide solution:
Pour 0.5% hydrogen peroxide solution into a beaker. Place the head of your toothbrush in the beaker so that all the bristles are completely immersed. Before brushing, take the toothbrush out of the solution and wash it with warm water.
The downside associated with this method is that the toothbrush bristles become worn out sooner.
How to clean an electric toothbrush?
If you’re a user of an electric toothbrush, you need to take care of your brush head. This can be done by employing the same methods mentioned above. However, extra care must be exercised if you choose to clean your brush head in boiling water as it can damage machinery parts.
Like manual toothbrushes, the recommended method of electric toothbrush care and hygiene is the UV Toothbrush Sterilizer.
Can we clean a toothbrush in a dishwasher?
Toothbrush “must not” be cleaned in a dishwasher. This is due to the following:
· The cycles of a dishwasher are very rigorous. In the case of a manual toothbrush, bristle wear will be extremely rapid. Your bristles might last less than 2 weeks, and you’ll need a new toothbrush.
· In the case of an electric toothbrush, putting it in the dishwasher could induce an explosion. Now you might be thinking that you can place the brush head in the dishwasher instead of placing the complete electric brush. In doing so, the spinning gears within the brush head will also be affected, along with the bristles.
Additional toothbrush care:
Below mentioned are the habits of toothbrush care that are underrated and are often neglected. However, these can tremendously affect overall toothbrush health. If these habits are followed religiously, microbial growth can be prevented, and a toothbrush can last longer.
· Don’t place your toothbrush near another toothbrush of your family member.
· Don’t place your toothbrush in a washroom. Instead, place it in a cupboard or a cabinet.
· Don’t cover your toothbrush head with a cap. Instead, place it in a sanitizing device.
· Air dry your toothbrush after rinsing it with water.
· Place your toothbrush in an upright position after use.
When to replace a toothbrush?
You must clean your toothbrush regularly. Nevertheless, how thoroughly you clean, you must replace your toothbrush regularly.
The recommended time for toothbrush replacement is 3 to 4 months. However, dentists recommend replacing your toothbrush once its bristles are splayed, i.e., out and apart.
Conclusion:
The best method to clean and disinfect your toothbrush is the Toothbrush Sterilizer. Not only is it proven effective against bacteria, but it is also a punch against viruses.