Sanitized Safety for Your Toothbrush

Packing for Vacation? – Don’t Forget the Toothbrush!

Have you ever wondered about how sanitary your toothbrush holder is for safe keeping of your toothbrush? Whether you store a toothbrush at the office or bring one to the gym or just packing your toothbrush for a trip, it’s important to know how to keep your toothbrush sanitized.

Portable Toothbrush Sanitizers

Technology moves so fast that you may have not realized that there is actually a tooth brush case that will sanitize your toothbrush with ultraviolet light.  There are several of these items on the market.  The toothbrush sanitizer is battery operated and can be used as a travel case for your toothbrush anytime, anywhere. It will accommodate a hand held toothbrush or an electric toothbrush head.

The investment is minimal when you consider how much bacteria your toothbrush can carry and how much of that bacteria can enter your bloodstream every time you brush your teeth.  It’s definitely a vicious cycle and can be hazardous to your overall health.

Alternate Sanitizing Methods for Your Toothbrush

If you find yourself in a situation without a toothbrush sanitizer, try some alternative methods.

• Try sterilizing your toothbrush in boiling water on the stove.  Caution is advised as less expensive travel toothbrushes will not withstand heat of a stove or microwave.
• Throw your toothbrush into the dishwasher.  The dry cycle will sanitize it.  Again, caution against cheaper brands that may melt.
• Try sanitizing your toothbrush in antibacterial mouthwash.  It should work for a quick fix.
• Don’t keep your toothbrush in the bathroom near the toilet or in the shower.  These places carry germs in the air and will naturally introduce bacteria to your brush.

It’s not Just About The Toothbrush

The toothbrush is only part of the problem.  How the toothbrush is stored is a major contributing factor to the growth of bacteria on your toothbrush.

Using a toothbrush and immediately packing it away, while still damp, is definitely out of the question.  This is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and will most certainly introduce bacteria to your toothbrush and to your mouth.

If you really have no means of sterilizing your toothbrush, just throw it away and buy a few new brushes for backup use.

Ocean County dentist, Dr. Ron Rotem, strives to keep your oral health at its best. It’s important for you to do your part by keeping your standards high when it comes to your oral health and the tools you use to maintain a healthy oral environment.

For the best in oral healthcare, call Ocean County dentist, Dr. Ron Rotem, today for a thorough examination and consultation.  In the meantime, enjoy whatever you do by bringing your dental floss along with a method to keep your toothbrush sanitized for the best oral health practices.