Are Your Dental Tools Sprouting Microplastics?
Researchers say dental products like nylon toothbrush bristles, plastic floss, and even packaging can shed microplastics, potentially affecting oral microbes, causing inflammation, or damaging DNA, but it’s unclear how much ends up in the body or if it causes health problems. Brushing and flossing remain essential, and there’s no proven nonplastic alternative yet. To limit exposure, brush and floss gently with soft bristles, replace your toothbrush every 3–4 months, keep products away from heat and sun, and spit out toothpaste instead of rinsing, though the overall risk is still uncertain.