Como Se Realiza Un Buen Diagnostico En Salud

F O R T H E D E N TA L PAT I E N T . . .

Toothbrush care, cleaning and replacement

dstore the toothbrush in an upright position if possible and allow it to air-dry. When storing more than onebrush, keep them separated so that germs are not transferred from one brush to another. Don’t routinely cover or store toothbrushes in closed containers. A moist environment helps the growth of mostgerms.
TOOTHBRUSH SANITIZERS

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roper toothbrush care is important to your oral health. Because a worn toothbrush is less effective in cleaning, the American Dental Association recommendsreplacing your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles become frayed. Children’s toothbrushes often need to be replaced more frequently.

BACTERIA AND TOOTHBRUSHES

You may haveheard talk about bacterial contamination of toothbrushes and wondered if it is cause for concern. The mouth harbors hundreds of different types of microorganisms (germs), some of which are transferredto a toothbrush during use. Microorganisms in the environment also may become established on a stored toothbrush. Toothbrushes may have bacteria on them right out of the box, because they are notrequired to be sold in a sterile package. However, the human body is constantly exposed to potentially harmful microbes, and it usually can defend itself against germs and prevent infections. Althoughstudies have shown that various microorganisms can grow on toothbrushes after use, evidence is lacking that bacterial growth on toothbrushes will lead to specific health problems. There is no clinicalevidence that soaking a toothbrush in an antibacterial mouthrinse or using a commercially available toothbrush sanitizer has any positive or negative effect on health. Some cleaning methods, includinguse of a dishwasher or microwave oven, could damage the brush. Here are some common-sense things you can do: ddon’t share toothbrushes; dthoroughly rinse the toothbrush with tap water after use to...