Do You Need a Toothbrush UV Sanitizer?
Is an Ultraviolet Sanitizer Necessary for Good Dental Health?
ADA Opinion
However, the American Dental Association (ADA) says most people probably do not need a home toothbrush sanitizer. The ADA says common sense routines are just fine for the general population. Rinse the toothbrush clean after each use and everyone should only use their own toothbrush without sharing. If budget allows, replacing the toothbrush every three or four months is a good practice, and sooner if the person gets a cold or other infection so to not keep reintroducing and spreading disease bacteria or virus. Allow toothbrushes to openly dry between uses to avoid bacterial growth, by keeping them out of dark, closed storage.
The ADA states that, "there is no clinical evidence that . . . using a commercially-available toothbrush sanitizer has any positive or negative effect on oral or systemic health. " However, the ADA also states should a person choose to use a sanitizer, make sure the label stating the product is cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These sanitizer labels should state no other claims beyond reducing bacteria up to 99.9%.
Other Opinions
The market for toothbrush sanitizers thrives in spite of the ADA's statement. Patients see dentists using similar devices in their offices to sanitize retainers and night guards, It is not a far leap from uv dental appliance cleaning to uv toothbrush care. Many dental sanitizer products are found in the dental care aisle for home and travel use. Some items offered include cleaning wands for home and office technology equipment, as well as travel cases for toothbrushes, razors, dentures and other dental appliances.
Toothbrush uv sanitizing products are being highlighted on medical television programming, such as "The Dr. Oz Show's" segment about must-have gadgets, which aired February 11, 2011. Yes, this writer is among those who own and use a toothbrush uv sanitizer. I purchased it long before the Dr. Oz feature, because I want to keep my toothbrush as clean as possible.
What is your experience or opinion about using uv sanitizing for our personal products?
Sources
The Dr. Oz Show
American Dental Association
Lynn Pritchett, Yahoo Contributing Writer
Published by Lynn Pritchett
Lynn's dedication to writing at Yahoo Network is inspired not only by her professional background in health care (pharmacy) and in education (grades K to 12 special needs & general classroom), but by her dai... View profile
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