Bamboo toothbrushes are rapidly replacing traditional plastic toothbrushes as people become more aware of the environmental impact of their daily plastic use. The annual production of plastic is estimated at 359 million metric tons, most of which are discarded in landfills.
Unfortunately for the environment, plastic isn’t biodegradable. Straws and toothbrushes are two examples of items made of plastic that are notoriously hard to recycle. So even though bamboo toothbrushes have been around for a while, you should read up on the environmental benefits of this material before making a move.
What is a Bamboo Toothbrush?
In the same way, you can find manual toothbrushes of various designs on the shelves of most stores, and you can also get manual toothbrushes made from bamboo.
A bamboo toothbrush is an alternative to traditional toothbrushes, with a more extended handle and bristles designed to reach hard-to-reach places better. The long hold of the bamboo version is a significant departure from the plastic counterpart.
Toothbrushes made from bamboo have been around for quite some time. The first toothbrushes were handcrafted in China from bamboo and other organic materials like boar hair.
The bristles of modern bamboo toothbrushes are made of nylon, the same material used in most modern toothbrushes. Manufacturers may choose to include activated charcoal into the strands or continue using traditional methods, such as using the boar’s hair.
Is Using a Bamboo Toothbrush Healthier for the Planet?
Since bamboo trees rapidly regenerate what is harvested for the toothbrush’s manufacturer, this material leaves a lesser ecological imprint than plastic. Toothbrush handles made from raw bamboo are also biodegradable and eco friendly products.
Toothbrushes made of bamboo may be composted once the nylon bristles have been removed, or they can be utilized as plant markers in the garden or for various purposes around the home. However, they will fill a landfill like a plastic toothbrush handle if thrown away.
There are fully biodegradable toothbrushes with bristles made from natural fibers. However, you should know that natural bristles are likely to be harsher than synthetic ones, which might lead to gum recession and tooth attrition. The dental hygienist you see may suggest a biodegradable or otherwise eco-friendly toothbrush if you ask for their opinion.
Would It Be Beneficial To Use A Bamboo Toothbrush?
A toothbrush made of bamboo may be equally effective in cleaning teeth as a plastic one. Therefore, it’s essential to consider the toothbrush’s head size, handle style, and bristle quality while selecting. The most incredible toothbrushes include:
- Flexible bristles.
- A slim design that allows them to reach into tight spaces in your mouth.
- An ergonomically designed handle.
You should change your toothbrush every three to four months or if there is apparent deterioration to the bristles on the toothbrush. If your toothbrush is becoming worn out, it’s time to upgrade to a new one.
However, let’s say you still have concerns about moving to a bamboo toothbrush. Your dental hygienist will be able to propose alternatives that will help you maintain a healthy mouth without adding to the accumulation of plastic trash.
Conclusion
While some people swear by bamboo toothbrushes, the jury is still out on whether or not they are actually better for the environment than plastic ones. If you’re looking to reduce your environmental impact, there are many other ways to do so that don’t involve using a seemingly eco-friendly product that may not actually be all it’s cracked up to be.
