How to Disinfect a Toothbrush. If you're looking for the best way to disinfect a toothbrush, you have several options. But first, you should note that experts don't recommend putting your toothbrush in the dishwasher or microwave because the heat may damage it.
Boil your toothbrush for about 3 minutes. Although it is hard on your toothbrush, boiling water will most germs. A toothbrush can be put into the silverware compartment of the dishwasher to be sanitized. Run your toothbrush through on the hot cycle without soap.
This study has shown that representative fungi, viruses, and aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, including spore formers, can easily be killed in a conventional microwave oven with proper modifications. Metal instruments, including air turbine handpieces and burs, and acrylic dentures can be sterilized in short periods.
Although boiling water can be a bit harsh on the plastic of your brush, it does a great job killing the bacteria that builds up over time. Boil a small pot of water on the stove and dip the head of your toothbrush in the rolling boil for at least three minutes to kill most germs.
You should never store your brush in a closed or airtight container, as bacteria love moisture and will thrive in this environment. Instead, place the brush in a cup or holder in an upright position to ensure that it dries off thoroughly. Avoid putting it in a drawer or cabinet, as well.
Hydrogen peroxide is another great way to disinfect your toothbrush and keep it clean until your next use. Simply fill a small glass with 3% hydrogen peroxide and store your toothbrush, bristles down, in the solution. When you are ready to brush your teeth, rinse the toothbrush under hot water before use.
UV sanitizing kills bacteria; viruses can survive on toothbrushes for 24 hours; toothbrush design, color, opacity, and bristle arrangement are a major factor in retaining microorganisms.
And when you disinfect your toothbrush weekly and see your dentist every six months to have your teeth cleaned and examined, you could rest assured that you're doing what you can to keep your oral health intact.
Soak your toothbrush in hydrogen peroxide for roughly 3-5 minutes. Then rinse out thoroughly with hot water. Same as the peroxide tip above. Soak your toothbrush in mouthwash for roughly 3-5 minutes.
This vibration causes friction, which allows the object to heat up to a temperature that can kill germs. That's why microwaves are sometimes used to disinfect items such as a household sponge, as they are a hotbed for viruses and bacteria.
Microwave heats water that kills bacteria. About 99% of bacteria can be killed in 2 min. To be on safe side, suggest 3 min on high.
Depending on the holder, you could put it in the dishwasher, wipe-down with sanitizing wipes, or use soap and water. Remember keeping your toothbrush clean helps your oral care as well. The most sanitary way to store your toothbrush is to keep the toothbrush in a clean holder where airflow can dry the toothbrush.
Clean Your Toothbrush with Baking Soda
Soak your toothbrush in a cup of water with 2 teaspoons of baking soda. Baking soda has antibacterial activity and has been found to kill bacteria that is a major contributor to tooth decay.
Disinfecting Your Toothbrush
You can also use 70% alcohol. Do not store the toothbrush in mouthwash liquid, or any other kind of liquid. After brushing, rinse the head with tap water, wipe the handle down, or disinfect with solution, then place bristles up to dry.
The results of this study show that the most effective method for disinfecting toothbrushes was submersion in 50% white vinegar, which is cost-effective, easy to access, and appropriate for household use.
Plastic Toothbrushes: 500 Years
Plastic toothbrushes are primarily made from polypropylene and nylon, two incredibly strong plastics that are derived from fossil fuels. And Americans throw away one billion of them every year.
Your toothbrush is loaded with germs, say researchers at England's University of Manchester. They've found that one uncovered toothbrush can harbor more than 100 million bacteria, including E. coli bacteria, which can cause diarrhea, and staphylococci (“Staph”) bacteria that cause skin infections.
Desai said as long as they're your own germs, you don't have to worry. You won't make yourself sick again if you use the same toothbrush after you've recovered. If you share your toothbrush with someone else, however, you could definitely make them sick.
Wetting before softens toothbrush bristles and rinses off debris. Wetting after ensures the toothpaste melts into your toothbrush so it doesn't roll off. Not wetting your toothbrush means there aren't extra steps between applying toothpaste and brushing.
When you use someone else's toothbrush, you expose your teeth and gums to new bacteria which may not react well with your existing bacteria. This foreign bacteria can increase your risk of catching a cold, the flu, or other germs lurking on your partner's toothbrush, even if they practice good hygiene.
If you don't want to use multiple brushes or leave your toothbrush in the open air, you can use hydrogen peroxide overnight to clean the bristles. Simply put a little bit in a small glass and store your toothbrush with the bristles down in the peroxide.
Avoid doing so for as long as you experience pain. This happens because peroxide can cause significant damage to the protective enamel of teeth if used too often or in too-high concentrations. More serious side effects of hydrogen peroxide whitening include inflammation of the teeth roots in the gums.
Store your toothbrush in hydrogen peroxide.
Pour the solution into a small container (enough to cover your toothbrush head) and soak your toothbrush in the solution for about 5 minutes. When the time is done, rinse your toothbrush thoroughly.