It is recommended that people brush their teeth twice each throughout the day for two minutes each time. While this dental health technique eliminates the bacteria that cause cavities but it also allows lots of germs to collect on your toothbrush, particularly when you keep it inside the bathroom.
To clean up after brushing, the best strategy has been to wash and dry. The people are turning to UV light toothbrush sterilizer due to the latest information regarding toothbrushes, oral health, and other advanced methods.
The devices can store and clean your toothbrushes. The UV toothbrush sterilizers can store up to four toothbrushes depending on the model. It basically kills germs by delivering UV light to the toothbrush.
What are they and how do they work?
The UV radiation damages DNA cells, effectively "killing them". Scientific American featured Anne Rammelsberg's explanation. She is an Millikin University Chemistry professor. She pointed out that UV light targets DNA base molecule, the thymine. The cell's function is disrupted when the Thymine molecules get damaged beyond repair. These germs then die and cannot cause any harm.
Are they effective at cleaning the toothbrush?
The American Journal of Dentistry published a study that evaluated the capacity of UV Light Toothbrush Sterilizer to remove microorganisms. The researchers found that the device cut down on bacteria by 86 percent, which was more effective than just rinsing the brush and allowing it to air dry. However, the UV light did not kill all bacteria, though no other toothbrush cleaning process has proven to do that either.
Should I buy a UV toothbrush sterilizer?
Dental health experts have concluded that a clean toothbrush is not necessarily beneficial to your oral health. Many people are concerned about the possibility of getting E.coli into their mouths. UV toothbrush sterilizers provide some relief. They can be utilized by everyone in the house, and each one has each one's own slot, meaning they're an excellent addition to any family dental plan.
While the ADA doesn't include UV toothbrush sterilizers in any of the recommended cleaning methods but it does state the fact that other common methods like microwaving the toothbrush or placing it into the dishwasher could damage the tool. The UV devices don't alter the toothbrush's physical appearance and would not affect its functionality.
Be aware that even if you do opt for an ultraviolet toothbrush sterilizer you must still replace your toothbrush at least every three to four months as the ADA recommended. It can fray or dislodge bristles, rendering the toothbrush useless.