Blog Highlights:

• Toothbrushes has been around for 5,000 years, the modern one however, was invented in 1938
• People who have difficulties using a manual toothbrush can use a battery-operated one
• You can ask the dentist to help you find a toothbrush that will suit your needs
• It is also very important to keep your own toothbrush clean
• Sharing toothbrushes can help spread infections
• Keeping your toothbrush in a container or in a dark, damp area will allow bacteria to thrive on its surfaces

5,000 years ago, humans used “Chew sticks” made from hog bristles, wood, and even bone as instruments for oral health. With that said, toothbrushes have been around for a very long time. The modern toothbrush however, made from nylon bristles, was invented in 1938. Today, a wide array of toothbrushes that are battery powered, and even ones that have unique features are readily available in the market. Manual and battery-powered toothbrushes can both be used to help thoroughly clean teeth. People who have difficulties using a manual toothbrush can opt to use an electric toothbrush so they can brush their teeth easily.  It is very important for the shape of the toothbrush to fit your mouth as comfortably as possible.  This will allow you to reach all the areas of your teeth properly. If you have limited space within your mouth, you can ask your dentist to help you select a toothbrush that will suit your needs. As soon as you have the right toothbrush, you need to brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. The American Dental Association recommends that you also floss your teeth or use an interdental cleaner once every day. Toothbrush Cleanliness If it is important to keep your teeth clean, then you can bet that it is also equally important to keep your toothbrushes hygienic.  Here are 5 steps to keep your toothbrush clean: Never share toothbrushes. Using another person’s toothbrush will expose you to another person’s saliva and microbes. This can make you very sick. This is very dangerous especially when it comes to people who have a compromised immune system, or when it comes to those who have contagious diseases. Sharing toothbrushes can spread infections; this is why you should only use your own toothbrush. Rinse the toothbrush thoroughly after brushing. Make sure that it no longer has any debris or toothpaste on its bristles. Toothbrushes must be stored in an upright position. This will allow you to air-dry your toothbrush properly. To avoid cross-contamination, you need to keep toothbrushes separately, making sure that they do not come in contact with each other. You should also store toothbrushes in the open. This is because covering them and keeping them in dark, damp containers will help bacteria to thrive on its surfaces. You can cover it and keep it only when it has been properly air-dried. Toothbrushes should also be replaced quarterly. Toothbrushes that have frayed or worn-out bristles are ineffective when it comes to cleaning your teeth and this is why it must be replaced as soon as possible. Children’s toothbrushes can easily get damaged; this is why they have to be replaced more often. When it comes to choosing toothbrushes, it is important for you to opt for one with the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

Related reading: Facts you need to know about Oral Thrush

Frequently Asked Questions

How long have toothbrushes been around?

Toothbrushes have been around for about 5,000 years, with the modern nylon-bristle toothbrush invented in 1938.

What types of toothbrushes are available for people who have difficulty using manual ones?

People who have difficulty using manual toothbrushes can use battery-operated or electric toothbrushes to help clean their teeth effectively.

Why is it important to keep your toothbrush clean?

Keeping your toothbrush clean prevents the spread of infections and bacteria, which can cause illness, especially in people with compromised immune systems.

How should toothbrushes be stored to maintain hygiene?

Toothbrushes should be stored upright in an open area to air-dry properly and kept separate from other toothbrushes to avoid cross-contamination.

How often should toothbrushes be replaced?

Toothbrushes should be replaced every three months or sooner if the bristles become frayed or worn out.