Abstract
Though oral hygiene is the most important item for controling dental caries or periodontal disease, the maintenance of the oral hygiene instrument after use should be paid attention to. Uncleanliness of the toothbrush may cause the growth of many microorganisms and transmit infectious disease.
The purpose of this investigation was to survey the daily procedures of the maintenance of toothbrush and to estimate the amount of bacteria left on bristles after use and rinsing by children.
1. The amount of bacteria adhering to the toothbrush after use and rinsing are 3.5×103-3.7×106 CFU, the average of 4.8×105 CFU.
2. The procedures of rinsing the toothbrush made a difference in the amount of bacteria adhering to the bristles and cleaning with tap water was significantly effective.
3. The maintenance of oral hygiene instruments in households is not sufficient based on the results of questionnaires.
These results suggested the necessity of instruction concerning procedures of maintaining cleanliness or maintenance of the tooth brush.
