Tooth brushing with a fluoride toothpaste is significant for good oral hygiene, plaque removal, keeping the mouth clean and healthy and improving a child's breath and sense of taste. Appropriate cleaning, storage and replacement of toothbrushes are also important to prevent spread of disease, health risk with toothbrush. Studies have shown that a variety of microorganisms can grow on toothbrushes after use. Toothbrushes become infected with bacteria, blood, saliva, oral remains and toothpaste. Even after being rinsed with tap water a visibly clean toothbrushes can remain impure with potentially harmful germs. Contaminated toothbrushes can be a reservoir for the direct communication of germs as well as a source for introduction of germs from infected to non-infected tissues.

Importance of toothbrush

Tooth brushing plays an important everyday role for personal oral hygiene and effective plaque removal too. Correct toothbrush care and maintenance are also important considerations for sound oral hygiene. The experts recommends that consumers replace toothbrushes approximately every 3-4 months or sooner if the bristles become worn with use. It is possible for microorganisms that are present in the environment where the toothbrush is stored to establish them on the brush. Toothbrushes may even have bacteria on them right out of the pack since they are not sold in a sterile package.

Basic tips for hygiene

Do not share toothbrushes as sharing a toothbrush could result in an exchange of body fluids and microorganisms between the users of the toothbrush. By placing the individuals involved at an increased risk for infections. Thoroughly rinse toothbrushes with tap water after brushing to remove any remaining toothpaste and remains. Store the brush in an upright position if possible and allow the toothbrush to air-dry before using it again. If more than one brush is stored in the same holder or area try to keep the brushes separated to prevent cross-contamination. Do not regularly cover toothbrushes or store them in closed containers. A moist environment like a closed container is more conducive to the growth of microorganisms than the open air. While there is evidence of bacterial growth on toothbrushes, there is no clinical evidence that soaking a toothbrush in an antibacterial mouth rinse or using sanitizer has any positive or negative effect on oral or systemic health. The cleaning effectiveness of the brush might be decreased if it is damaged.