Why Is It Important To Disinfect Your Toothbrush?
Does your toothbrush carry germs? Yes, bacteria and food debris can remain on your toothbrush and potentially harm your oral health if not taken care of properly. Common ways to disinfect your toothbrush include the use of antibacterial mouthwash, hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, or denture cleaners to reduce bacteria. Since there isn’t just one best way to sanitize toothbrush, it’s worth it to try different methods and find out which works best for you. In this article we offer tips on how to disinfect toothbrush and improve your oral care.
Best Practices For Disinfecting Your Toothbrush
Want to know how to disinfect toothbrush and what liquid can you use to sanitize a toothbrush? We’ve got you covered. Continue reading to discover several ways to keep your toothbrush clean.
Antibacterial mouthwash
Many over-the-counter mouthwashes contain antibacterial ingredients that reduce bacterial plaque buildup, gum inflammation, and tooth decay. Try soaking your toothbrush in antibacterial mouthwash for no longer than 15 minutes.
Hydrogen peroxide
Soaking your toothbrush in 3% hydrogen peroxide may reduce bacteria, according to some studies. Mix 1 teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide in 1 cup of water.
How long should I soak my toothbrush in hydrogen peroxide? It is suggested to soak your toothbrush for no longer than 15 minutes. After soaking, rinse your toothbrush with water and let it air dry.
Baking soda
Baking soda can be used for many purposes, including disinfecting your toothbrush due to its natural antibacterial properties. Mix 2 teaspoons of baking soda mixed into 1 cup of water and soak your toothbrush for no longer than 15 minutes. After soaking, rinse your toothbrush with water and let it air dry.
Denture cleansers
Denture cleansers can be used to disinfect your toothbrush. Many denture cleansers are antibacterial and contain ingredients that help break down food particles. Dilute the denture cleanser with water and soak your toothbrush in the solution for approximately 90 seconds.
Tips For Maintaining A Clean Toothbrush
There are many great tips on how to clean toothbrush. Follow these simple suggestions:
Rinse Thoroughly with Warm Water
It is recommended to rinse your toothbrush with warm water before and after using it. Hot water helps loosen up the bristles and release remaining food particles. Gently shake the bristles off with clean hands.
You may wonder, can you clean toothbrush with soap? Yes, soap can be used to clean your toothbrush and reduce bacteria. However, soap can cause oral irritation if not rinsed properly before using. Consequently, many dental professionals do not recommend using soap to clean your toothbrush.
Allow to Air Dry Complete
Letting your toothbrush air dry is a crucial step in keeping your toothbrush clean. Mold and bacteria thrive in moist environments and can be harmful to your health. It is not recommended to keep your toothbrush in closed containers such as travel cases when still wet. Once done brushing, rinse your toothbrush with water and shake off any excess. Sit your toothbrush in an upright position and let it air dry.
Using Mouthwash To Disinfect Your Toothbrush
How to sterilize toothbrush using mouthwash? Follow these step-by-step guidelines:
Step 1: Prepare a Bowl
Start by gathering a small clean bowl. Place enough antibacterial mouthwash to cover the head of your toothbrush.
Step 2: Soak the Toothbrush
Soak your toothbrush for approximately 2 minutes, but no longer than 15 minutes. Leaving your toothbrush in the solution longer than recommended can damage the bristles.
Step 3: Rinse Thoroughly and Air Dry
After soaking your toothbrush, it is important to rinse your toothbrush thoroughly with water. This is necessary to remove any chemicals from the mouthwash. Shake off the excess water and let it air dry before next use.
Guide To Cleaning An Electric Toothbrush
What about how to clean toothbrush that’s electric? Here’s what you need to know about cleaning an electric toothbrush:
Step 1: Detach the Toothbrush Head
First, detach the toothbrush head from the base. Rinse the bristles and inside of the head thoroughly with warm water. Use clean hands to brush through the bristles and remove any food particles. Replace your brush head every 3-4 months or as recommended by the manufacturer. You may also choose to soak your toothbrush head in a small amount of mouthwash, diluted hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, or denture cleanser.
Step 2: Clean the Toothbrush Base
Clean the toothbrush handle and base with a damp cloth to remove any debris. Follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning the toothbrush handle and base properly.
Step 3: Dry Thoroughly and Reassemble
Shake off excess water from your toothbrush head and dry the handle and base with a dry cloth. Reassemble your toothbrush and let air dry.
Helpful Toothbrush Care Tips
There’s a few things to keep in mind when it comes to taking care of your toothbrush. Take a look:
Store Toothbrushes Away from the Toilet
As weird as it may sound, toilet aerosols can contaminate your toothbrush if kept nearby. According to research, toilet aerosols often contain bacteria and viruses that can travel through the air and land on your toothbrush! Store your toothbrush in a dry and open area that is away from your toilet or any moisture to prevent infection with bacteria or mold.
Maintain a Clean Storage Area
Make sure that the area where you are storing your tooth is clean. It is important to regularly clean your toothbrush holder and cover with warm water and soap. It is best to avoid storing wet toothbrushes in closed containers such as travel cases to prevent bacteria and mold growth.
Avoid Sharing Toothbrushes
Be sure to only use your own toothbrush. Sharing toothbrushes can lead to the spread of harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause tooth decay, gum disease, or make you sick. Although rare, blood-borne illness can spread through oral bleeding transferred via sharing someone else's toothbrush.
Keep Toothbrushes Separate from Each Other
If you share a bathroom with others, make sure to keep your toothbrush away from others. Keep your toothbrush several inches apart from others within your household to avoid cross-contamination. Each person in your household should have a different colored toothbrush or unique design that allows you to tell them apart to prevent accidentally sharing.
Clean Your Hands Thoroughly
Wash your hands thoroughly before and after brushing your teeth. Keeping your hands clean can help reduce the transfer of bacteria and viruses.
When To Replace Your Toothbrush
It’s common to question how long you should hang on to your toothbrush. You may have even wondered how to disinfect a toothbrush after being sick. The truth is, your toothbrush is not meant to last forever, even if you disinfect it regularly. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), you should replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. However, you may need to replace your toothbrush even sooner if your toothbrush bristles are visibly worn/frayed or after being sick.
