To produce a plastic toothbrush, especially a toothbrush comprising an exchangeable brush head, the retaining ends (6) of bristles (3) are pushed through holes (5) in a retaining plate (4) or a toothbrush body (2) in such a way that they protrude slightly. Said retaining ends (6) of the bristles (3) are joined to each other and/or to the retaining plate (4) or the brush body (2) by fusion. In this way, before or after fusion an oligodynamic material (9), especially in liquid form, can be applied at least in partial areas but preferably across the entire surface, on the retaining ends (6) of the bristles (3). Said material is incorporated into the melted mass during fusion or, if it is applied after fusion, penetrates the plastic material of the bristles (3) by diffusion or capillary action. During use of the toothbrush and as a result of the wetting caused thereby, the oligodynamic material is distributed along the full length of the bristles and can have an antibacterial and germicidal action during the duration of use, until it is fully rinsed out.