INTRODUCTION: Toothbrush is an oral hygiene instrument efficient prevention of disease, however, it is suitable in the proliferation and spread of microorganisms. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate which cares for storage and descontamination of toothbrushes, held by families assisted by a university extension project. METHODOLOGY: The methodology consisted of an observational study, through the application of a specific form. RESULT: Of the 88 people interviewed, 71.6% washed all the brush under running water and 10.2% ran his fingers on the bristles to remove excess water. As for the storage of brushes, 37.5% kept inside the bathroom cabinet, while 28.4% holding it all together over the sink. With respect to the transfer, 88.6% knew that the toothbrushes could be a means of transmission of disease, but 40.9% did not know how it made transmission. About disinfecting toothbrushes, 71.6% have never heard of and 77.3% did not use any disinfectant solution. CONCLUSION: Found that most families are not performing the procedures necessary to keep your brushes free of contamination.
Toothbrushing; disease prevention; decontamination; dentistry