We all know that it is important to brush your teeth after every meal and before going to sleep. When done with a fluoridated mouthwash, brushing teeth is the best way to combat plaque build-up and disease formation, including tooth decay and gingivitis.
The widespread use of toothbrush in the world is not without ecological consequences. Since we, at Dents Mon Quartier, care for the environment and the ecological footprint of our clinic, we prepared this article. We discuss the problem of toothbrushes from an environmental point of view and the solutions that exist.
Tons and tons of waste
It is estimated that every year in the United States alone, about 1 billion toothbrushes are used and then thrown away. That is 50 million tons of waste... In Canada alone, if each of the approximately 37.5 million people follows the recommendations and changes their toothbrush every 3 months, this represents an annual use of more than 150 million toothbrushes.
Traditional toothbrushes, which are used by most people, are made of polypropylene and nylon, two types of plastic that are very resistant. Their use is common, especially in the food sector. These plastics are made from petroleum, which is a first problem for the environment. In addition, it takes a long time to decompose when buried in landfills, creating an astronomical amount of waste. Moreover, by decomposing, this type of plastic is likely to create microparticles that spread in the environment (soils, rivers, oceans, etc.).
It goes without saying that the number of toothbrushes used worldwide and the way they are available contribute to the problem of plastic pollution.
What about electric toothbrushes ?
Are electric toothbrushes a more environmentally friendly alternative? Unfortunately, not really since the head of these brushes also needs to be replaced regularly. Also made of plastic, it is then discarded and takes an enormous amount of time to decompose. However, companies are now offering greener options, including new material used to manufacture them or new ways to how to dispose of and recycle them. It is therefore appropriate to find out before you buy an electric brush if you are more sensitive to environmental issues.
The bamboo toothbrush: a compostable alternative
We are seeing more and more companies that offer an environmentally friendly alternative to plastic toothbrushes: bamboo brushes. Bamboo is indeed a material that is widely considered "Eco-Friendly" and sustainable. It is a resistant material, which takes less resources than wood and very materials to be produced. In addition, it grows up to 10 times faster than more common wood sources.
In addition, bamboo is biodegradable. For example, toothbrushes can be composted when they have reached their lifespan. Simply cut the nylon bristles before placing the brush in the compost.
Despite these advantages, the use of bamboo toothbrushes is not yet widespread, with plastic toothbrushes still the norm.
The team at Dents Mon Quartier is concerned with environmental issues, the state of our planet and is working extremely hard to reduce its environmental footprint.
If you have any suggestions, please do not hesitate to share your ideas with us at your next visit and we will be glad to discuss your suggestions with you to find a better, cleaner, and greener way to offer high-quality dentistry!
Approved by Dre Charouk
Dr. Joumana Charouk, D.M.D, is proud to offer her patients exceptional care that combines experience, efficiency and good humor.
Dre Joumana Charouk, D.M.D