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Toothbrush Care,
Cleaning and
Replacement |
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Bacteria and
Toothbrushes
You may have heard talk about bacterial contamination
of toothbrushes and wondered if it is cause for concern. The mouth
harbors hundreds of different types of microorganisms (germs), some of
which are transferred to a toothbrush during use. Microorganisms in
the environment also may become established on a stored toothbrush.
Toothbrushes may have bacteria on them right out of the box, because
they are not required to be sold in a sterile package. However, the
human body is constantly exposed to potentially harmful microbes, and
it usually can defend itself against germs and prevent infections.
Although studies have shown that various microorganisms can grow on
toothbrushes after use, evidence is lacking that bacterial growth on
toothbrushes will lead to specific health problems. There is no
clinical evidence that soaking a toothbrush in an antibacterial
mouthrinse or using a commercially available toothbrush sanitizer has
any positive or negative effect on health. Some cleaning methods,
including use of a dishwasher or microwave oven, could damage the
brush. Here are some common-sense things you can do:
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don’t share toothbrushes;
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thoroughly rinse the toothbrush with tap water after use to remove any
toothpaste and debris;
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store the toothbrush in an upright position if possible and allow it
to air-dry. When storing more than one brush, keep them separated so
that germs are not transferred from one brush to another. Don’t
routinely cover or store toothbrushes in closed containers. A moist
environment helps the growth of most germs.
Toothbrush Sanitizers
Toothbrush sanitizers have not been shown to provide a
health benefit. If a consumer chooses to use one of these devices, the
ADA’s Council on Scientific Affairs recommends that he or she select
one cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Manufacturers of FDA-cleared products must provide the agency with
information to support their marketing claims. Below are examples of
FDA-cleared claims for toothbrush sanitizers on the market today.
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The product is
designed to sanitize toothbrushes.
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The product is
intended for use in reducing bacterial contamination that
accumulates naturally on toothbrushes. Claims that go beyond
sanitizing the toothbrush or reducing bacterial contamination should be
viewed critically.
Read the complete Council on Scientific
Affairs’ statement on toothbrush care at the ADA’s Web site at
http://www.ada.org/sections/scienceAndResearch/pdfs/patient_60.pdf
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