801-768-0404
Your toothbrush has a big job to do. Removing the plaque food particles from your teeth is no small job, and your toothbrush needs to be clean and in good shape. But how do you clean a toothbrush?
It may seem like a good idea to sterilize it. People have tried running their toothbrushes through the dishwasher or putting it in the microwave, or even boiling them. Doing any of these things won’t sterilize your toothbrush, and instead, might only damage the bristles. Some people have tried soaking their toothbrushes in mouthwash. You should only soak it for about 15 minutes, and dispose of the mouthwash afterward. UV sanitizers are an interesting idea, which uses ultraviolet light to sterilize the bristles. You should only use a product that has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). You should also be aware that using a UV sanitizer may not remove all of the bacteria on your toothbrush.
To clean your toothbrush, all you really need to do is to rinse it under the tap until the bristles are free of leftover toothpaste and food debris. Then store it upright in a place where the air can easily dry it. You should store it away from the other toothbrushes in your household to prevent any cross-contamination of oral bacteria. And as distasteful as it sounds, keep the toilet lid down. When you flush, bacteria can travel 4-6 feet from the bowl, and may land on your toothbrush.
If you have questions about your toothbrush or any other aspect of your oral health care, our dentist Dr. Cliff Doman will be happy to answer them. If you live in the city state area and would like to make an appointment at Doman Dental, call 801-768-0404 today. We look forward to seeing you soon!