One Brush at a Time: Dental health and saving the planet are not at face value. However, the picture changes somewhat when you realize that Australia throws away a staggering 30 million toothbrushes each year. In terms of plastics, that’s 600,000kg of plastic consigned to landfills. And as we all know, plastic never truly decomposes. It just separates into mico-pieces that contaminate the environment. In other words, every single toothbrush made since the 1930s is still living on as a contaminant. So the question is, how can we maintain our dental health whilst still doing our bit for Mother Earth?

How often should I change my toothbrush?

Most dentists will recommend that it’s optimal for your dental health to change your toothbrush once every three months. The wear and tear they are subject to daily cause the bristles to break down and become less effective at eradicating plaque from teeth and gums, which in the worst-case scenario could lead to gingivitis. Additionally, fungus and bacteria can accumulate in the bristles if not rinsed properly. Always store the brush upright, and ensure it is uncovered. And remember, after a cold or any other infection, it’s wise to replace your toothbrush because the germs can hide in the bristles and put you at risk of reinfection.

What solution works best for my dental health and the planet?

Plastic is the most common material that toothbrushes are made out of. Yet the tide is turning and there are a growing number of solutions that work best for your dental health and the planet. More and more brands are manufacturing toothbrushes made out of bamboo, which degrades far quicker than plastic if placed in a landfill, and if you remove the bristles first, it can also be composted. Bio-based plastic toothbrushes are another viable option.

Moving toward a plastic-free dental health program

At Integrity Dental, we are committed to your dental health and that of the planet. Before the invention of plastic, toothbrushes were made from natural materials for centuries. The toothbrush is one of the world’s greatest inventions. Toothbrushes, the planet, and your dental health deserve a plastic-free future.