A majority of Dentist In Rancho Cucamonga will inform you that because our mouths have bacteria and the bathroom does as well, it is common to wonder if your toothbrush stays clean enough with just a rinse after brushing, especially since some products now claim to sanitize.
Most Dentist In Rancho Cucamonga will inform you that toothbrush sanitizing, however, is not the same as sterilizing. Sanitation means 99.9 percent of bacteria are reduced.
With sterilization, all living organisms are destroyed. However, is a sanitizing of your toothbrush a necessity or a preference?
What the American Dental Association Suggest
Our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist say that according to the American Dental Association, no commercial goods can sterilize a toothbrush and it is not necessary. The ADA notes,”There is insufficient clinical evidence to help the bacterial growth on toothbrushes will lead to specific adverse oral or systemic health effects.”
Bacteria generally tends to grow in dark, warm and moist places. Keeping your toothbrush covered or kept in a closed container might lead to problems.
In addition, our Dentist In Rancho Cucamonga suggest you let your toothbrush air dry in a holder that offers you an opportunity to let it stand up without touching the bristles or other toothbrushes. Replacing your toothbrush every three-to-four months is also critical. 1 other thing, try to avoid sharing toothbrushes.
Keeping It Clean
The majority of us simply rinse the toothbrush head after we’re done brushing. But a more thorough rinse in warm water ensures that food debris and leftover toothpaste will not remain in the bristles.
While the ADA notes there is no clinical proof that soaking a toothbrush in antibacterial mouthwash has a positive effect, it won’t damage your toothbrush.
If you want to sanitize, toothbrush heads should be immersed for about 15 minutes in mouthwash. Any longer could damage the bristles. And don’t share or reuse that mouthwash, it defeats the purpose.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises against using your dishwasher or microwave to disinfect toothbrushes. Moreover, the CDC also includes ultraviolet devices on the list of items that may damage the toothbrush.
Some Exceptions
Our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist say that if someone in your family is sick or is at a higher risk of infection, taking some preventative steps may aid in guarding against a problem. Replacing toothbrushes more often, buying disposable toothbrushes and using antibacterial mouthwash to rinse and soak could offer some benefit.
If you decide to try a UV toothbrush sanitizer, our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist say the product ought to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
Keep in mind that a UV sanitizer will not remove all germs. Because the ultraviolet light may deteriorate the bristles, you need to inspect and replace your toothbrush more often.