Are Toothbrushes Toxic? Could Yours Contain a Dangerous Chemical?
As a Seaside, Oregon dentist who offers family dentist services in Seaside, our top priority is to help protect and improve the health of our patients. That means not only providing exceptional care for our patients, but also to help educate patients on potential health risks they may not be aware exist.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends replacing toothbrushes every three to four months, which contributes significantly to plastic waste.
Triclosan – a potentially harmful antibacterial agent currently used as an ingredient in some brands of toothpaste such as Colgate – has been shown to slowly build up on the bristles of toothbrushes, according to a new report.
What makes this realization troubling, according to researchers, is that your chemical exposure can continue even if you elect to switch to a different brand that’s triclosan-free.
The use of the chemical ingredient is now currently banned in over-the-counter gels, wipes, and soaps in the U.S. However, manufacturers can still use the antibacterial agent in toothpaste due to its ability to help reduce gum inflammation, cavities, and plaque buildup, said researchers from the University of Massachusetts that led this study.
Earlier studies have found that triclosan can disrupt hormones in humans and animals. It has also been shown to contribute to antibiotic resistance and is harmful to marine life, noted the researchers in their report. When totaled, the dangers presented by triclosan certainly seem to outweigh any potential benefits. But the majority of consumers are likely unaware that such a potentially harmful compound could be legally used in the products they purchase.
A Hidden Danger: Plastic Pollution
As part of their study, researchers from UMass simulated brushing with 22 toothbrushes and a variety of toothpastes.
Over 33 percent of the toothbrushes tested, including two types of children’s brushes, accumulated amounts of triclosan equal to seven to 12 times the amount typically introduced into the mouth while brushing.
Many toothbrushes, including those with nylon bristles, can accumulate harmful chemicals like triclosan, complicating their recyclability and contributing to plastic waste.
Toothbrushes that feature “polishing cups” or “tongue/cheek cleaners” – usually made from a material known as elastomers – absorbed the highest amount of triclosan, stated researchers.
When the research team switched to brushing with brands of toothpaste that did not contain triclosan but continued using the same brushes, the chemical was continuously released during brushes for two weeks.
In addition to highlighting the dangers of prolonged triclosan exposure, the study findings also suggest that triclosan could find its way into the environment if toothbrushes tainted with the chemical are thrown away, stated researchers in a press release to the American Chemical Society.
Previously, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration had banned triclosan from antiseptics products due to potentially harmful effects and because little proof existed that the chemical was actually more effective at eliminating germs than the simple combination of soap and water. The chemical is still currently allowed in a variety of health and beauty products, including hair dyes, deodorants, and hand lotion.
The Hidden Dangers of Plastic Toothbrushes
Plastic toothbrushes have been a staple in our daily oral hygiene routine for decades, but they pose a significant threat to our environment and health. While they are convenient and widely available, the production, usage, and disposal of plastic toothbrushes have severe consequences that cannot be ignored. From the moment they are manufactured to the time they are discarded, plastic toothbrushes contribute to a cycle of environmental degradation and potential health risks.
Environmental and Health Impacts
The environmental and health impacts of plastic toothbrushes are multifaceted and far-reaching. From the extraction of fossil fuels to the disposal of plastic waste, the entire lifecycle of plastic toothbrushes is detrimental to our planet. The production process alone involves significant energy consumption and the release of harmful chemicals, which can have adverse effects on both the environment and human health.
The Impact of Toothbrush Production
The production of plastic toothbrushes requires the extraction of fossil fuels, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. The manufacturing process also involves the use of chemicals and energy, which can harm the environment and human health. Furthermore, the transportation of plastic toothbrushes from factories to consumers results in additional carbon emissions. This entire process leaves a considerable carbon footprint, exacerbating the ongoing climate crisis.
The Environmental Cost of Toothbrush Disposal
The disposal of plastic toothbrushes is a significant environmental concern. Plastic toothbrushes are not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose. They often end up in landfills, oceans, and other waterways, contributing to the already overwhelming plastic pollution problem. The plastic waste from toothbrushes can also harm marine life and contaminate the food chain. As these plastic toothbrushes break down into microplastics, they pose a threat to marine ecosystems and potentially to human health through the consumption of contaminated seafood.
Helping to Protect Your Oral Health
If you’re concerned about the dangers presented by triclosan, here are a few brands of toothpaste that don’t contain the chemical:
- Tom’s of Main Toothpaste
- Swanson’s Toothpaste
- Nature’s Gate
- All brands of Crest Toothpaste
- Jason’s Toothpaste
- Trader Joe’s Peppermint Toothpaste
Another alternative to plastic toothbrushes is those made with animal hair bristles. These toothbrushes are fully compostable and help reduce plastic pollution. Additionally, electric toothbrushes are becoming increasingly popular, especially for those with manual dexterity issues. Both electric and manual toothbrushes can perform equally well when used correctly, and the American Dental Association (ADA) advises using toothbrushes with soft bristles to ensure gentle cleaning and care for the gums.
If you’re considering switching to a brand of toothpaste that doesn’t contain this chemical compound, it’s also important that you switch brushes at the same time. The transition from traditional toothbrush bristles, such as boar hair, to modern options like nylon has been significant, but the environmental impact remains a concern.
Switching to bamboo toothbrushes can help reduce contributions to the plastic crisis and minimize greenhouse gas emissions associated with traditional plastic products. If you need a new brush, we’ll be happy to provide you one during your next visit to see our Seaside, Oregon dentist.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives
Fortunately, there are eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastic toothbrushes. One of the most popular options is the bamboo toothbrush. Bamboo toothbrushes are made from sustainable materials and are biodegradable, making them an excellent choice for those looking to reduce their environmental impact. Unlike plastic toothbrushes, bamboo toothbrushes do not contribute to plastic pollution and can be composted after use. By switching to a bamboo toothbrush, you can maintain your oral hygiene while also taking a step towards protecting the environment.
Seaside Family Dentist Services – Keeping You Informed of Bacterial Contamination Risks
As part of our commitment to providing comprehensive family dentist services, we believe it is crucial to keep our patients informed about potential health risks. Staying informed about the latest research and best practices in oral health is essential for making more sustainable and health-conscious decisions. By staying educated on the latest research and best practices, you can make more informed decisions about your dental and overall health. If you have any concerns or questions about your dental care products, do not hesitate to reach out during your next appointment.