Researchers have found that a single toothbrush can be loaded with as many as 10 million germs and bacteria. In fact, recent studies even found that your toothbrush could be a breeding ground for tiny microorganisms.
According to Richard Price, DMD, a dentist in Newton, Mass. and a consumer adviser for the American Dental Association, the researchers who discovered those toothbrush-dwelling microorganisms found that they didn’t make people sick — toothpaste has an anti-germ component built into it, and the microbes need moisture to survive. So as long as your toothbrush is given time to dry after you use it, it should be safe.
To take care of your teeth and your toothbrush, it’s important to use your toothbrush the way you’re supposed to, rinse it in tap water, and then let it air dry, Price says.
This starts with storing your toothbrush in an upright position. Most people don’t need to worry about storing it away from other toothbrushes — germs are airborne, but they don’t hopscotch from one brush to another. However, if someone in the household has an immune deficiency, you can't be too careful, says Price.
You can soak your toothbrush in alcohol to kill the germs, Price adds. Mouthwash is also an antiseptic, so it works as a "toothbrush soak," too, as does a solution of half water and half hydrogen peroxide. Another option is to dip it in boiling water for about five to 10 seconds.
Interestingly enough, toothbrush sanitizers haven’t shown to have much effect. And you should never put your toothbrush in the dishwasher or microwave: You’ll just end up damaging it.
DO YOU NEED A NEW TOOTHBRUSH?
- · The longer you use a toothbrush, the greater the bacteria accumulation.
- · If you have just had a cold or the flue dump your brush immediately.
- · The longest you should go is 3months. After which get a new toothbrush.
- · The toothbrush becomes less effective if the bristles are bent or worn-out.
OTHER IMPORTANT TIPS
- · Be sure your toothbrush is completely dried before placing it in a case.
- · Always rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after each brush.
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