Dr. Neumann’s KidsTravelDoc: Toothbrushes/children/travel/diarrhea

October 25, 2008

Posted in Food & Water Precautions, Safe & Healthy Travel
Tags: Diarrhea

Children old enough to brush their own teeth may be exposing themselves to diarrheal illnesses via their toothbrushes, especially when traveling in areas where such illnesses are common.

Here is the theory:

Children often place their toothbrushes on sink counter surfaces when finishing brushing, or in the middle of brushing if something more interesting catches their attention.

Sink surfaces everywhere have microorganisms on them and are rarely disinfected. In countries where diarrheal diseases are common, diarrheal-causing organisms are present — splashed there when washing ones’ hands, especially after using the toilet, from placing fecal-contaminated underwear for washing, and from droplets sprayed from the toilet when flushing with the lid open, for example.

Sink surfaces remain wet for hours, bathrooms tend to have high humidity, and toothbrushes contain cells from the gums and contain food particles — all favoring rapid growth of organisms. Moreover, toothbrushes are sometimes stored in closed containers, especially by travelers, prolonging the time they remain moist. Under such circumstances, organisms can remain alive for weeks.

Here some tips for handling toothbrushes from the American Dental Association (ADA):

• Rinse with safe water after brushing.
• Store in an upright position.
• Never store in closed container.
• Keep separate from other toothbrushes.
• Check that children use their own brush.
• Replace brushes monthly, more frequently when traveling, and immediately if children use them improperly.
• Soaking brushes in antibacterial sanitizers or using ultraviolet devices does not have either positive or negative effects on health. Soaking may lead to cross-contamination of brushes if the same disinfectant solution is used over a period of time or by multiple users.
• Dishwasher and microwave ovens may damage brushes.
• For further information, visit the ADA website: www.ada.org/prof/resources/positions/statements/toothbrush.asp.

Related hygienic techniques to teach children include:

• Washing hands frequently,
• Placing toothbrushes on clean tissues or washcloths, not on the sink surfaces,
• Wiping sink surfaces when wet, and
• Closing toilets before flushing.

Posted in Food & Water Precautions, Safe & Healthy Travel
Tags: Diarrhea