How To Find The Right Sustainable Toothbrush For You

Wooden and Plastic Tooth

Our world has given us so many innovations, and one of the biggest influences on our world is plastic. For oral care, plastic toothbrushes have become a consumer go-to for cleaning their teeth, and for dental companies, they’re easy to produce. However, when the topic of sustainability comes into question, dental companies usually fall short of the mark. Plastic toothbrushes have become extensively harmful to our environment, and this negative impact has made it difficult for our world to change. However, there are plenty of businesses wanting to change that by driving innovation and developing new toothbrushes that are effective, safe, and won’t harm the environment.

Sustainability vs. Convenience: Which is Better?

Over 50 million lbs of plastic toothbrushes are discarded each year – with that heavy of an impact, it’s time we change it. However, one of the largest issues when choosing toothbrushes is whether their specifications match the needs of their consumers. Having that fancy bamboo toothbrush may not last as long as a plastic toothbrush, and choosing a sustainable option may not mean that the design of the toothbrush is considered safe by ADA standards. It’s essential that, among the various products out there, that you look for toothbrushes that have the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

The ADA recommends replacing your toothbrushes every three to four months because old, hardened bristles can damage your teeth and gums. While it’s a valid recommendation, it doesn’t necessarily address the sustainability issue with our over-reliance on plastic. For longer-lasting toothbrushes, the only recommendation provided by the ADA is electric toothbrushes, but the heads of those toothbrushes still need to be thrown out and replaced every three to four months, still leading to more plastic waste.

Toothbrush Options For Brushing Sustainability

So, what is an environmentally conscious person suppose to do in this scenario? The best place for these kinds of questions is to speak with your dentist. Recycling your plastic toothbrushes can be an excellent way to combat the issue of plastic waste in our landfills and oceans. If you want an easier recommendation for toothbrushes, here’s our select list for you to search for while at the grocery store:

  • RADIUS Brand Toothbrushes: The RADIUS brand has a unique design that’s safe for children with large handles and wide brush heads. The design of these brushes makes it easier to reduce chronic bleeding from gum disease, and it’s made from cellulose sourced from yield trees, making it a highly sustainable option.
  • Electric Toothbrushes: Second best, electric toothbrushes provide more convenient brushing, taking away the risk of grinding with manual brushing. These toothbrushes have the ADA seal of acceptance, and the amount of plastic thrown away is significantly decreased.
  • Bamboo Toothbrushes: Bamboo toothbrushes don’t have an ADA seal of acceptance, but dentists have begun recommending bamboo toothbrushes because of their design and soucing. Bamboo toothbrushes are made from materials ethically sourced, depending on the brand, and can make your oral care better.

For more information on sustainable brushing and better toothbrushing advice, arrange an appointment with your dentist today!