Jerusalem Post
ByDORON KUPERSTEIN
Studies show that toothbrushes and dental floss may release microplastic particles. Is the risk serious? And how can exposure to the dangerous substance be reduced.
In recent years the term microplastic has become an inseparable part of the health and environmental discourse. These tiny plastic particles have been found in the air we breathe, in the water we drink and even in internal organs such as the heart and the brain. Now it turns out that everyday hygiene products including toothbrushes and dental floss may also release similar microscopic particles. The question is whether this represents a real health risk or another relatively negligible source of exposure.
It is almost impossible to completely avoid microplastics. We swallow them, inhale them and sometimes absorb them through the skin. Drinking bottles, plastic kitchen utensils and synthetic fabrics are considered major sources. But recent studies indicate that dental products may also contribute to exposure.
Most dental products are made of plastic. The bristles of toothbrushes are usually made of nylon, and dental floss is essentially a thin plastic fiber. During brushing or flossing friction occurs that may cause fibers and tiny particles to break down and remain in the mouth. Even the packaging of toothpastes and mouthwashes is produced through heating and shaping processes of plastic that may cause tiny particles to migrate into the product.
Real silk dental floss, a bamboo toothbrush
However, experts emphasize that there are still no clear data showing how much microplastic is actually released from dental products and how much of it actually enters the body. It is possible that a large portion of the particles is expelled with saliva and water. Beyond that, it is not clear whether this relatively small exposure causes significant health damage.
Some researchers raise theoretical hypotheses that microplastic may disrupt the bacterial balance in the mouth, trigger an inflammatory response or even damage DNA in cells. But these are hypotheses that have not yet been proven in humans in the context of dental products. Therefore, for now there is no official recommendation to replace a toothbrush or dental floss for these reasons alone.
And what about alternatives that are not plastic? There are brushes with a bamboo handle that reduce environmental waste but the bristles themselves are still sometimes made of nylon. There are also brushes with natural hair bristles, but they may be harder, cause gum irritation and dry more slowly which may encourage bacterial growth. Real silk dental floss also exists, however in some studies it was ranked as less comfortable to use and tended to tear more quickly.
The steps that should be taken to reduce exposure to microplastics
Experts emphasize a particularly important point. The benefits of brushing and flossing in preventing tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss are well established in medical research. In contrast, the possible damage from microplastics in dental products has not yet been proven. Therefore there is no reason to give up oral hygiene due to a theoretical concern.
For those who nevertheless want to reduce exposure, several simple steps can be considered. First, brush gently. Aggressive movements may damage the gums and may also increase the breakdown of fibers. It is recommended to choose a brush with soft bristles and to maintain gentle and controlled movements. Also when using dental floss it is advisable to insert it gently between the teeth, curve it around each tooth and move up and down gently.
Second, replace the toothbrush every three to four months or earlier if the bristles split. Worn bristles may break down more easily. In addition, it is advisable to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or high heat. Plastic breaks down faster under ultraviolet radiation and high temperatures, therefore there is no need to rinse a brush with boiling water or disinfect it with ultraviolet light.
At the end of brushing it is recommended to spit out the remaining toothpaste and dirt thoroughly. Although dentists usually do not recommend rinsing with water in order to allow fluoride to remain on the teeth, a light rinse with a small amount of water may help remove possible residues.
Ultimately the central message is risk management and not panic. Microplastics are a broad environmental and health issue that requires further research, but as of today there is no proof that dental products constitute a significant source of risk. Maintaining oral health should remain at the top of the priorities, while maintaining balanced awareness of the environment and the substances we come into contact with.
