Toothbrush Contamination Prevalent in Communal Bathrooms

Oral hygiene is one of the most important aspects which determine the health status of the individuals. Time and again, the health professionals around the world insist and recommend the importance of keeping good oral health. Among the number dental hygiene tips, the foremost, almost the most essential tip given by healthcare professionals is to store tooth brushes with care. If adequate care is not taken, staphylococci, coliforms, pseudomonads, yeasts, intestinal bacteria and even faecal germs may be affecting your health. Therefore, appropriate tooth brush storage is very important to achieve personal hygiene.

In one of the research studies performed, toothbrushes were collected from participants using communal bathrooms, with an average of nine occupants in each bathroom. Irrespective of the storage method, at least sixty percent of the toothbrushes were found contaminated with faecal coliforms. In spite of the various decontamination methods including hot water rinse, cold water rinse, mouthwash rinse, the tooth brushes were found with bacterial or faecal remains. 

Tooth brush contamination is prevalent in communal bathrooms and should not be ignored. Even using a tooth brush cover does not protect the tooth brush from bacterial growth and experts including those from Dentzz, opine that using a tooth brush actually creates an environment where the bacteria can flourish, since the bristles of the tooth brush would not be able to dry. Toothbrushes are a known source of contamination. There are several potential sources of contamination of one's toothbrush. Toothbrushes which are stored open in the bathroom are especially vulnerable to contamination. Also toilets that are used by a lot of people run a higher risk of infection. Sanitisation and storage practices of a toothbrush are very important to avoid the potential bacteria growth present on a toothbrush.

Health professionals around the world and that from Dentzz, are of the opinion that it is very important to thoroughly rinse the toothbrush with potable tap water, after brushing to remove any remaining toothpaste and debris. Additionally, toothbrushes that are soaked in an antibacterial mouth rinse have been shown to decrease the level of bacteria that could grow on toothbrushes. It is also recommended that the tooth brush should not be stored in a closed container or with a closing cover, since damp environments would be conducive for the growth of bacteria. It is also important to store the tooth brush upright and allowing them to air dry. In addition, if more than one tooth brush is stored, it is important that the tooth brushes are stored in separate areas since doing so would avoid cross contamination. In addition, tooth brushes should be replaced every three to four months or when the bristles become frayed and worn out.

In addition to the above, it is also essential for every individual to have a proper routine dental care regime, routine dental check-up, washing hands well and not sharing tooth brushes. To brush in a proper manner is very essential to ensure that the teeth are plaque free and bacteria free.

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