Shocking Study about Bacteria and Your Toothbrush

Everyone knows a clean toothbrush is important, but a new study suggests that hollow head electric

toothbrushes harbor up to 3,000 times the bacteria over solid head toothbrushes.  The new study comes from researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) School of Dentistry.  The conclusion gave much needed insight on cleanliness of a electric brushes.

The results of the study are published in the August issue of the Journal of Dental Hygiene. Lead author and professor at the UTHealth School of Dentistry, Donna Warren Morris, R.D.H., M.Ed. determined the key to the design when it comes to bacteria is in the head. 

Choosing the right toothbrush may not be that easy.  Manufacturers do not expose on packaging if the heads are solid or hollow.

Regardless of the brush used, a few simple rules can tremendously help.

1. Let your toothbrush dry out in the open.  Do not put it in a case or dark cabinet.

2. When buying,  make sure to choose a brush with soft nylon bristles.

3. Try to look at the toothbrush head and choose one with the smallest attachment hole, making the
    brush-head more solid and less hollow.

4. If possible, wash your toothbrush in the dishwasher every night with the dishes on the "sanitize"     option.

5. Rinse your toothbrush with water after every use, and if possible Listerine or peroxide.  This will help to keep it clean.

Regardless of the toothbrush, it's always better to brush than not brush.  Brushers always have a cleaner mouth and lower bacterial count over those that do not.  J  It's your mouth, so it's best to take the time to do all you can.

Verde Pointe Dental Associates and Marietta dentists, +Kirk Kimmerling DDS +Suzanna Aguilera and Garrick McGrath understand the importance of excellent dental hygiene.  It would be their privilege to keep or help get your oral health on track and discuss your toothbrush.  The dentists can also help with dental emergencies and cosmetic dentistry.