How Your Dishwasher Can Help Keep Your Toothbrush Cleaner
Posted on 8/15/2025 by Masci & Hale Advanced Aesthetic and Restorative Dentistry
We all know the importance of brushing our teeth twice a day. But did you know that the way you store your toothbrush can impact its cleanliness? A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Dentistry found that toothbrushes stored in open air can be contaminated with bacteria from the bathroom environment.
This is where your dishwasher comes in. Dishwashers are designed to clean and sanitize dishes, and they can do the same for your toothbrush. In fact, a study published in the American Journal of Infection Control found that dishwashers can effectively remove bacteria from toothbrushes.
How to Clean Your Toothbrush in the Dishwasher
Here are the steps on how to clean your toothbrush in the dishwasher:
1~
Rinse your toothbrush under running water to remove any food debris.
2~
Place your toothbrush in the top rack of the dishwasher, bristles facing down.
3~
Run the dishwasher on a regular cycle with hot water.
4~
Remove your toothbrush from the dishwasher once the cycle is complete.
5~
Allow your toothbrush to air dry completely before using it again.
Benefits of Cleaning Your Toothbrush in the Dishwasher
There are several benefits to cleaning your toothbrush in the dishwasher:
•
Effective cleaning: Dishwashers are designed to clean and sanitize dishes, and they can do the same for your toothbrush.
•
Convenience: You can clean your toothbrush along with your dishes, saving you time and effort.
•
Improved oral health: By keeping your toothbrush clean, you can reduce your risk of developing oral health problems like gingivitis and cavities.
Conclusion
Cleaning your toothbrush in the dishwasher is a simple and effective way to improve your oral hygiene. By following the steps above, you can help keep your toothbrush clean and free of bacteria. Remember, prevention dentistry is always the best approach to maintaining a healthy smile. Talk to your dentist to learn more about how to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
We are proud to partner with Nobel Biocare, a leading innovator of dental implants, in offering our patients the most advanced dental restoration technology available.
If you’re looking to rejuvenate your smile and oral health, ask us about dental implants.
Masci & Hale Restorative Dentistry | Dentist Montgomery, NY Our experienced team offers patients a reason to smile via comprehensive dental exams, general and cosmetic dentistry, and teeth whitening. Learn more here! Masci, Hale & Wilson Advanced Aesthetic and Restorative Dentistry, 2134 State Route 208, Montgomery, NY 12549 ~ (845) 457-5763 ~ areasontosmile.com ~ 9/8/2025 ~ Key Phrases: dentist Montgomery NY ~
We all know the importance of brushing our teeth twice a day. But did you know that the way you store your toothbrush can impact its cleanliness? A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Dentistry found that toothbrushes stored in open air can be contaminated with bacteria from the bathroom environment.
