Your toothbrush is home to over 1.2 million different types of bacteria. So what are you supposed to do to avoid those germs and stay healthy?
Toothbrushes
Researchers found that viruses like the flu, staph, bacteria, E. coli, yeast fungus, and strep can all be found on your toothbrush head. As gross as that sounds, there is no reason to panic. Your immune system is there to help fight off that bacteria from making you sick. In addition, if you start practicing healthy hygiene habits, the chances of your toothbrush making you sick lowers.
Bathrooms are the perfect place for bacteria to grow, even if it isn’t on your toothbrush! Bacteria requires food, water, and oxygen to grow. It grows well in places that are damp, moist, and often times warm. Think about when you take a hot shower or bath. Your bathroom becomes steamy, warm, and sometimes is wet if you take really hot showers. This is the perfect place for bacteria to form. It will find any place to start growing, so why not your toothbrush on the counter?
Prevention
How can you prevent bacterial growth on your toothbrush and keep your body healthy? The best way to do so is by properly taking care of or store your toothbrush. UAMS suggests the following tips to prevent your toothbrush from growing bacteria.
- Change your toothbrush head every three months, or right after you’ve been sick.
- Store brush away from the toilet, and close lid before flushing.
- Wash hands before and after brushing your teeth.
- Do not share toothbrushes.
- Rinse thoroughly with hot water after you brush.
- Submerge into hydrogen peroxide or alcohol-based mouthwash.
- Air dry after use.
To learn more about when to change your toothbrush, contact Castlewood Dental Group. At Castlewood Dental Group, we offer various dental care services, including general dentistry, cosmetics, and more. It’s important to establish good oral habits, especially when children are young. You can find us online here or call us at 276-762-2323 today!