The accumulated water and protein-laden water drips down and there are enough nutrients in that water to allow bacteria and mold to grow [sic]. Which all sounds about right: Gunk and mold thrive wherever water sits stagnant—say, the base of the toothbrush, or where the head is attached.
Excess water, spit, and toothpaste can combine together and build up in the excess space between where the replaceable brushing head inserts into the electric toothbrush body. It can also accumulate where the toothbrush sets into the charging base.
To clean the body of your toothbrush, you should also use your bleach and water solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water). Dip a cloth or cotton pad in the solution, then swipe it along the body of your toothbrush, focusing on any areas that have mold or water buildup.
If you spot signs of mold on your toothbrush, even on the handle, you should simply replace it. Mold can spread quickly and will only get worse. As a rule, you should replace your toothbrush every three to four months whether it has signs of mold or not.
'When you put a toothbrush in a drawer or cover it with a lid, you're creating a moist environment where bacteria are more likely to thrive,' she said. She explained the sorts of bugs that may grow in this environment are dependent on what has already been in the mouth.
The Toothbrush Element
Now picture that toothbrush. Not only is the room perfect, but the electric toothbrush itself is prime real estate for mold spores. It's constantly wet and there are tons of particles on it from your mouth and the air. With an electric toothbrush specifically, that base is also a problem.
Toothbrushes get moldy because they're often in the perfect conditions for mold to develop. Microscopic mold spores live in the air and can attach themselves to your toothbrush from just floating about. Now they just need a few conditions to grow! All mold needs are air, moisture, just enough warmth, and food!
The black liquid comes from inside the electric brush unit itself, not the brush head. You should always clean the electric brush unit also after brushing your teeth. Do this: When you're done brushing, take the brush head off.
The bristles and brush head can build up bacteria and fungal growth, which is not healthy for your mouth. Have you ever seen a toothbrush looking brownish or yellowish at the base of the bristles? Time to throw that one away… or reuse it for small scrubbing jobs around the house.
How Often Should You Replace an Electric Toothbrush? As stated above, you should replace your electric toothbrush every three to five years, depending on your use. However, the brush comes with removable parts, for instance, the electric toothbrush head. Brushes generally last 3-6 months, but some can go longer.
Mold can also become an issue if your toothbrush cannot dry out completely between uses. Mold can cause a number of symptoms that may mimic the cold or flu, such as sore throat, cough, brain fog, general malaise and a wide myriad of symptoms.
Some studies have found that soaking your toothbrush in a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution or antibacterial mouthwash can help kill any bacteria that may be on it. To make and use this solution: Mix 1 teaspoon of peroxide in 1 cup of water. Swish the bristles of your toothbrush in the solution or soak for 15 minutes.
Soak your toothbrush in the mouthwash solution for 15 minutes (30 minutes for the vinegar solution). Don't leave it any longer though as it can damage the bristles. If you're using an electric toothbrush, do not soak the handle in the solution as it's electrical and, again, this will damage it.
Don't overuse the heads of your electric toothbrush. The ADA recommends you change these heads every three to four months. If bristles on these heads are frayed or matted, you should immediately replace them, even if you've used them for less than three months.
A 3% Hydrogen Peroxide solution is a great choice if you want to kill all of the yeast, fungi, bacteria, viruses and mold spores living on your toothbrush.
She notes that "toothbrush bristles are designed to be effective in both wet and dry conditions." Some people — especially those with sensitive gums or teeth — find it more comfortable to wetting the toothbrush first, as it slightly softens the bristles, while others like keeping their toothbrush dry, "as they feel it ...
Improper storage and care of your toothbrush could make it a harbor for germs, including staph, intestinal bacteria and more. Do you know Staphylococci, coliforms, pseudomonads, yeasts, intestinal bacteria and — yes — even fecal germs may be on your toothbrush?
Brushing with a moldy toothbrush is not exactly what dentists had in mind while asking us to practice dental hygiene. That's why toothbrush maintenance is so important! Clean teeth won't do you much good if mold exposure is affecting your health and causing symptoms like brain fog, chronic fatigue, or joint pain.
Unfortunately, just as it's possible to find black mold in a cup or growing in your basement, it's also possible to find black mold on dentures, a removable retainer, or black mold on a toothbrush. This is why it's so important to carefully maintain your brushing and flossing instruments and other dental devices.
A 2017 study published in the journal PLOS One found that electric toothbrushes were more likely than manual to abrade dentin—the tissue directly below the tooth's enamel, which can become exposed when enamel wears away or gums recede. Abrasions to the dentin increase tooth sensitivity and can hike cavity risks.
As with most electronics, electric toothbrushes have a shelf life. The body does need to be replaced every few years due to general wear and tear, which is definitely something to keep in mind.
And never try to clean your toothbrush by putting it in the dishwasher or microwave; the high temperatures can damage the brush.
Most likely it is mold. That is why it is a good idea to change out our toothbrush containers once a week ( I use a cup), or at least thoroughly wash them once a week. Mold. Mold is everywhere and, in your case, has accumulated because there was water left in the container.