Patients should look for a device that has been cleared by the U.S. Toothbrush sanitizer devices are available. 13 Microwaving or putting toothbrushes in the dishwasher is not recommended as such high heat may damage the brush. While there is little data in the literature regarding toothbrush sanitizing, one study indicates that soaking a toothbrush in 3 percent hydrogen peroxide or Listerine mouthwash greatly reduces (i.e., 85 percent) bacterial load. Nonetheless, some patients may be interested in sanitizing their toothbrushes. 12 While toothbrushes have been shown to harbor bacteria, there is no evidence that these bacteria cause adverse health effects. Toothbrushes have been shown to harbor bacteria (including fecal coliform bacteria that can be released into the air when the toilet is flushed or can be spread to the toothbrush when the owner touches a contaminated surface before handling his or her brush). The effectiveness of the brush decreases as the bristles become worn. Toothbrushes should be replaced approximately every three to four months or more often if the bristles become matted or frayed.Storing a moist toothbrush in a closed container promotes microbial growth more so than leaving it exposed to the open air. Store toothbrushes in an upright position after use and allow them to air dry.Rinse the toothbrush thoroughly after each use to remove any remaining paste and debris.Sharing a toothbrush could result in an exchange of bodily fluids and microorganisms between people. Here are some toothbrush care tips to share with your patients: SEM images comparing new and used toothbrush bristles (Used with permission from Applied Science Accessed April 25, 2016). Also, when brushing, the ADA recommends that people use a soft-bristled toothbrush and apply gentle pressure, both of which may help reduce the risk of gingival injury. Regardless of the technique used, brushing should touch upon all surfaces-inner, outer and chewing. 6 To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, they should tilt the brush vertically and make several up-and-down strokes. 5 In general, the American Dental Association suggests that people place the toothbrush against the gumline at a 45-degree angle to remove plaque from above and just below the gingival margin, and move the toothbrush gently back and forth in short strokes. There are a number of techniques for brushing teeth any of which may have advantages depending on a patient’s particular needs. Brushing for two minutes has been shown to achieve clinically significant plaque removal 3 and use of a toothpaste containing fluoride enhances fluoride concentration levels in biofilm fluid and saliva, and is associated with decreased risk of caries and remineralization of teeth. The American Dental Association recommends brushing teeth twice a day for two minutes using a fluoride toothpaste. Children should be assisted by or supervised by an adult and should be instructed to spit the excess toothpaste out after brushing. Once children are 3 years or older, they can use a pea-sized drop of fluoridated toothpaste. 2 As children become more coordinated with age, they should be able to brush their own teeth under adult supervision, continuing to use a child-sized toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles.Ĭhildren younger than 3 years should use a smear of fluoridated toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. The toothbrush should have soft bristles and a head small enough to easily maneuver inside the child’s mouth, reaching all tooth surfaces. Generally, caregivers should brush an infant’s teeth twice a day, using a child-sized toothbrush. 1, 2Ĭaregivers should follow instructions from their child’s dentist. Therefore, the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry agree that brushing should begin as soon as the first tooth erupts. As soon as primary teeth start to erupt, which may be as early as 6 months of age, they are at risk of tooth decay.
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