Toothbrush

A toothbrush is a special type of brush used to clean the teeth, gums, and tongue. It consists of a head of tightly clustered bristles, onto which toothpaste is applied, mounted on a handle that facilitates cleaning hard-to-reach areas of the mouth. They should be used in conjunction with tools that clean between the teeth―where toothbrush bristles cannot reach―such as floss, tape, interdental brushes or toothpicks.

Toothbrushes are available in different bristle textures, sizes, and forms. Most dentists recommend using soft-bristled toothbrushes, as harder ones may damage tooth enamel or irritate the gums.^[1]

Since many common toothpaste ingredients are harmful if swallowed in large amounts, toothpaste should be spat out. Brushing teeth is most often done at a sink in a bathroom or kitchen, where the toothbrush is rinsed afterwards to remove any debris remaining and then dried to reduce conditions ideal for bacterial growth (and, if it is a wooden toothbrush, mold as well).

Some toothbrushes have plant-based handles, often made of bamboo. However, most are made of cheap plastic; such brushes constitute a significant source of pollution.^[2][3] Over 1 billion toothbrushes are discarded into landfills annually in the United States alone.^[4] Bristles are commonly made of nylon (which, while not biodegradable like plastic, may still be recycled), bamboo viscose, or boar bristles.