Disinfecting your toothbrush: Tip of the Day 10-7-22
Plenty of people rinse their toothbrush after brushing their teeth. But are you also disinfecting your toothbrush regularly? Studies have found that after rinsing a toothbrush with water, it can still be contaminated with bacteria and microorganisms from saliva, toothpaste, food debris, and blood.
A quick disinfecting session will help keep your toothbrush germ-free before you put it in your mouth!
Soaking toothbrushes in the same cup of mouthwash or disinfecting solutions may spread germs under the right conditions. So swish the toothbrush around, rinse the toothbrush with hot water, and use fresh mouthwash the next time.
FYI - Studies have found that toothbrushes kept in closed containers, travel cases, and toothbrush covers have more bacteria than those left to air dry. Experts don’t recommend putting your toothbrush in the dishwasher or microwave because the heat can damage it.
Bonus tip: Denture cleaning solutions can be used to disinfect your toothbrush. Just be sure to rinse the solution completely before using the toothbrush again.