The plural of toothbrush is toothbrushes. Toothbrushes are oral hygiene tools used to clean the teeth, gums, and tongue. Most toothbrushes have plastic handles that are made by injecting plastic into molds, and the bristles are made of nylon, a synthetic fiber that won’t break down in water or in the ingredients commonly used in toothpaste. Toothbrushes with alternative bristles may need to be replaced more often than toothbrushes with nylon bristles. Some toothbrushes have plant-based handles, often bamboo, and eco-friendly bristles are tougher to find. Toothbrushes are essential oral care items that have evolved over time to become scientifically designed tools using modern ergonomic designs and safe and hygienic materials.
Positive:
- Toothbrushes are essential for maintaining good oral hygiene.
- Toothbrushes are designed to provide the best possible cleaning for teeth.
- Toothbrushes with plastic handles are resistant to bacterial growth, making them easier to sanitize.
Negative:
- Toothbrushes made of cheap plastic constitute a significant source of pollution.
- Over 1 billion toothbrushes are disposed of into landfills annually in the United States alone.
- Plastic toothbrushes require energy to be synthesized and are not eco-friendly.
Ingredients or materials:
- Toothbrush handles are made of plastics that can be injected into molds, with the most common materials being polypropylene, polyethylene, and nylon.
- Toothbrush bristles are made of nylon, a synthetic fiber that is strong and flexible, and doesn’t degrade or break down in water or with the types of ingredients usually found in toothpaste.
- Eco-friendly toothbrushes have wooden handles, usually bamboo, because it is more antimicrobial than other alternative materials.