With the gradual improvement of living standards, people around the world pay more and more attention to hygiene. The outbreak and lingering effects of the epidemic have heightened public concern over health issues more than ever before. People deeply clean everything around them in, from dawn to dusk. However, it’s not uncommon for them to neglect to disinfect their toothbrush regularly.

Exposed to bacteria and food particles on the teeth twice (or more times) a day, toothbrush bristles can become a fertile breeding ground for germs within a few days. So, in today’s blog post, we’ll discuss how to thoroughly disinfect your toothbrush.

Why do you need to disinfect your toothbrush?

Perhaps you follow all the instructions for good oral hygiene, including brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste, and after that, you will place the mouthwash cup with the toothbrush on the counter or in the medicine cabinet. However, you may still ignore the danger hidden in your toothbrush, which can lead to poor dental health.

Your toothbrush may look innocent enough, but unfortunately, the truth is that it may not be as clean as you think. Your mouth is home to many different types of germs and bacteria. According to experts, thousands of different types of microbes can grow on toothbrush handles and bristles, some of which can cause illnesses such as the flu. In addition, bacteria, saliva, and food scraps can stay on your toothbrush when you brush your teeth. Studies have found that even after you rinse your toothbrush with water, it can still be contaminated with microbes. Then, the next time you put your toothbrush in your mouth, these microbes can make you sick.

How to disinfect your toothbrush

Given that toothbrushes are fertile breeding grounds for many strains of viruses and bacteria, the National Dental Association recommends that you thoroughly clean your toothbrush at least once a week.

Here are some ways to disinfect your toothbrush for your reference.

Disinfect your toothbrush by antibacterial mouthwash

Using an antibacterial mouthwash is one of the easiest ways. Not only does it kill bacteria in your mouth that may be harmful to your teeth, but it can also help keep your toothbrush clean. Just pour some mouthwash into a small cup and stir the toothbrush bristles in the solution for about 30 seconds.

Disinfect your toothbrush by hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is another good way to disinfect your toothbrush and keep it clean until your next use. Simply fill a small glass with 3% hydrogen peroxide and place your toothbrush, bristles downward, in the solution. But remember to rinse your toothbrush with hot water before your next brush and change the solution every day.

Disinfect your toothbrush by baking soda

To disinfect a toothbrush with baking soda, you should add two teaspoons of baking soda to a cup of water and mix it up thoroughly, then allow the toothbrush to air dry after soaking in the solution for about 15 minutes.

Disinfect your toothbrush by denture cleaners

Although designed for denture cleaning, effervescent denture tablets can play an important role in cleaning your toothbrush. These tablets contain enzymes and detergents that help loosen food caught between the bristles of the toothbrush and are antibacterial. Please don’t forget to rinse your toothbrush after use.

Disinfection by heat

Toothbrushes can be sanitized by placing them in the silver compartment of the dishwasher, on the thermal cycle without soap. Or you can buy an ultraviolet toothbrush disinfectant, which combines steam and dry heat to disinfect your toothbrush.

But it’s important to note that some experts don’t recommend using a UV sanitizer or dishwasher to disinfect your toothbrush, because too much heat may warp the plastic on the toothbrush and damage the bristles.

What to do to care for your toothbrush

Regular toothbrush care will ensure this powerful tool is in optimal condition so that it can help you fight against plaque and maintain oral hygiene.

Here are some tips for your toothbrush care.

Rinse with hot water.

It’s enough for most people to rinse their toothbrush with hot running water to keep it clean. Please put the toothbrush in hot water before and after each use. Hot water helps to soften the bristles and release food scraps and toothpaste stuck to the toothbrush. 

Air dry. 

The bacteria that stay on the toothbrush after use are considered anaerobic, which means they will die in the presence of oxygen. In the meanwhile, a moist environment is favored by bacteria or mold. So, to keep your toothbrush clean, you should rinse your toothbrush and shake off the excess water after brushing your teeth to let it dry completely. 

Place properly.

Keep toothbrushes away from the toilet to reduce the possibility of harmful droplets settling on the surface when you flush the toilet. Also, don’t forget to clean your toothbrush holder regularly and wipe down bathroom countertops and sinks, which will remove saliva and excess toothpaste.

Avoid sharing toothbrushes.

You should not share toothbrushes with your family because brushing sometimes causes the gums to bleed, increasing the risk of the spread of disease. It is recommended that each family member have a toothbrush that is distinguishable. In addition, try not to store several toothbrushes in the same toothbrush holder or drawer.

Replace in time.

Check regularly whether your toothbrush is clean and straight. Replace your toothbrush when you notice the first signs of discoloration, buildup, or frayed bristles. Regular replacement every three months is recommended, even if your toothbrush looks brand new. Moreover, if you or your family member suffers from a contagious illness such as a cold, throw away the toothbrush and replace it with a new one after recovery.

You can clean an electric toothbrush in a similar way to a regular toothbrush. Simply remove the toothbrush head from the base before cleaning. Electric toothbrush heads should also be replaced every three months or when the bristles are worn.

Your mouth is home to thousands of bacteria. Therefore, if you want to prevent diseases, it is of great significance to disinfect and care for your toothbrush regularly. Your oral health is our concern. We are at your service.