Evaluation of the preference and recommendation of dentists regarding the use of bamboo toothbrushes

Abstract

The present study evaluated the knowledge, use, and perception of bamboo brushes among 35 health professionals. Although 97.1% are aware of these brushes, only 22.9% use them, indicating a significant gap between knowledge and adoption. Some 67.7% of the respondents showed interest in trying them, but only 35.3% recommend them, influenced by the perception of their effectiveness. In addition, 80% know that plastic toothbrushes take more than 70 years to disintegrate, but 91.2% have never received information on how to properly recycle a toothbrush, highlighting the need for sustainability education. Despite the willingness of 60% to switch to bamboo brushes, the lack of information and education on recycling remains an obstacle. The study concludes that the adoption of sustainable practices requires increased awareness and education on recycling and plastic waste management