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A good rinse keeps toothbrush cleanDear Dr. Reitz: In a previous column you recommended the purchase of an electric toothbrush. At least one commercially available brush has a build-in ultraviolet sanitizer. Does the ultraviolet light actually kill bacteria and is it necessary to sanitize a toothbrush? - Sandy Dear Sandy: Regardless of the toothbrush you choose, proper brush maintenance is important for good oral hygiene. We know that the mouth is home to hundreds of different bacteria, and it is likely some are transferred to the toothbrush during use. It is also possible that just sitting in your bathroom the toothbrush picks up bacteria. The environment is filled with potentially harmful bacteria. However, your body protects you by setting up barriers and fighting any bacteria that gain access with antibodies and white blood cells. Although studies have found that bacteria can grow on a toothbrush after use; there is just no proof that the bacteria are of any concern or pose any health problems. The American Dental Association's Council on Scientific Affairs recommends the following for toothbrush care: 1. Rinse the brush after use to remove debris and toothpaste, and store in an upright position to allow the brush to dry. Placing the brush in a closed plastic container is more conducive to bacteria growth. 2. Do not share toothbrushes because that could result in an exchange of microorganisms between users. This is bigger concern for people with active gum disease or compromised immune systems, who are more susceptible to infections. If you follow these guidelines for toothbrush care you should be OK, because there is no documented study that indicates it's necessary to disinfect a toothbrush. If you have a medical condition that makes you more susceptible to infections or would just feel better knowing the toothbrush is free of bacteria there are some things you can do. Soaking the brush in an antibacterial mouth rinse has been shown to reduce the number of bacteria, in fact just rinsing before brushing with a medicated mouth rinse reduces the bacteria that are transferred to the brush. If you decide on an ultraviolet sanitizer I would recommend you choose one that has the Food and Drug Administration approval. The column is written by John Reitz, DDS, and does not represent the opinion of the Pennsylvania State Dental Board. Dr Reitz answers questions from readers. E-mail them via his Web site at reitzdds.com or mail to John Reitz, DDS, 30 Commerce Drive, Wyomissing PA 19610 John
V. Reitz, D.D.S., F.A.G.D. Copyright
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