Abstract: A toothbrush employs a bristle guard for the prevention of contamination and deformation of toothbrush bristles. The bristle guard comprises an arm, which is received within, and pivotally connected to, the toothbrush handle. The pivotal connection allows the arm to move between a guard position and a brushing position. In the guard position, the arm extends from the handle and supports the toothbrush in a rack style holder. In the brushing position, the arm is substantially received within the toothbrush handle allowing conventional use.