Hanging On To your Old Toothbrush? It Might Be Crawling With The Dangerous Germs You Can't See

Still holding on to your old toothbrush? It might be hiding harmful germs you can’t see. Find out how often you should replace it and why it matters for your health.

Are you using the same old worn out toothbrush and when was the last time you replaced your toothbrush. If you can’t remember this, then you need not worry because you’re not alone. Many of us keep a toothbrushes much longer than we need to, and do not know what is lurking in those bristles. One may forget the fact that something that we use daily may be working against us. Of course, your toothbrush is vital in maintaining a healthy and clean mouth, but with time, it might serve as a mute breeding place for bacteria, germs and even mould. The fact is that you have been using that old brush you have been counting on, and it may be hurting you more than it is helping you, and you are likely not even aware of it.

The Hidden Truth Of Toothbrush

Most of the time, toothbrushes are exposed to an environment which is moist, warm environment, and especially when it is stored in bathrooms. Your toothbrush then becomes a perfect breeding ground for bacteria, viruses, and even fungi. According to some studies, it can carry E Coil, Staphylococcus ,Streptococcus and faecal bacteria.

Every time you brush your teeth, the food particles, plaque unblock from the framed comes can become trapped in the bristles. Overtime, these can also feed harmful microorganisms. Even if you is rinse your toothbrush, thoroughly, does not completely remove the contaminants.

How Often Should You Replace It?

You should change your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. You can easily get to know when to change it by just looking at the bristles, which are frayed or you have been sick, it is always a good idea to replace it even soon. If you are someone who suffered from cold, flu or any contagious illness, it is really important to replace your toothbrush in order to prevent any kind of infection.

Shared Spaces, Shared Germs

This is true that cross contamination happens when your toothbrush is stored close to other toothbrushes, it is common in family bathrooms where germs can easily transfer from one rush to another when they are in touch or are stored a shared holder. Even germs from your toilet, can stick to your toothbrush if it is kept nearby and uncovered.

If you want to protect yourself, then you should keep your toothbrush upright in a holder and always allow it to dry, and it is also important to make sure that it does not touch anyone else’s brush. If you close the toilet lid.

The Risk To Your Health

Most bacteria which are found on toothbrushes can pose a threat under certain conditions. People who have weak immune systems, oral infection or chronic illness are particularly more pronto getting sick with the infection. It’s all about poor toothbrush hygiene that can cause gum diseases or oral infection.

Yes, brushing twice a day is mandatory and good, but only considering the fact your toothbrush is clean and functional.

How To Keep Your Toothbrush Safe?

Here are some steps that you can take to keep your toothbrush clean

Rinse thoroughly

You should make it to practice to toothbrush after every use.

Store It Upright

Try to keep your toothbrush in an upright position and always allow it to air dry.

Do Not Cover

Yes, it might sound a bit ironic, but you should not cover your toothbrush because it can trap moisture, which can even cause more germs.

Don’t Share Toothbrush

The key step to hygiene, never share your toothbrush because it is not a healthy practice and can lead to transfer of germs, even if it is your family member, you should never share the toothbrush.

Overall, if you consider your toothbrush is one of the most important tools for maintaining Oral hygiene. But again, if you are brushing with the same old worn out brush then you might be brushing more than just toothpaste.