Germs: The toothbrush may be a nest for germs

Your toothbrush is a nest for germs

Maureen Diament

14 Aug 2015

updated the 6 October 2015 à 22:52

1/7
Do not leave it to close to the tap
Each time we wash our hands, micro droplets of dirty water are projected into the air. Hence it's better to put the toothbrush away to not contaminate with germs.
2/7
On the toilet lid
Same principle as for washing hands, but with the power of the flush, water droplets can be spread over several meters.
3/7
Do not store your toothbrush in the sink
If it's there, the bristles will not be allowed to fully dry, making it a breeding ground for bacteria to live.
4/7
Place the head of the toothbrush up
If the bristles remain moist, bacteria will take the opportunity to grow and multiply. Do not let it sit horizontally on the rim of the sink, or it may come in contact with the microbes present in the sink.
5/7
Using the plastic cover
It may seem like a good idea to protect the toothbrush with the cover but it instead prevents the water from evaporating fully - creating ideal conditions for bacteria to grow.
6/7
Separate cups
This is still the best way to store toothbrushes and to prevent spreading infections from a sick person.
7/7
Change toothbrush every 3 months
Or as soon as the hair is damaged. Otherwise, brushing becomes unnecessary and increases the risk of diseases.

The toothbrush is supposed to protect us from infections but when it does not respect some rules of hygiene, it can become a source for disease.

Did you know that some 10 million bacteria lurk between the bristles of the toothbrush that you put twice daily in your mouth? Appetizing is not it? While most of these germs are not harmful (the mouth itself is full of essential bacteria involved in the balance of oral flora, and the body in general), basic precautions are necessary to prevent diseases.

CAN MY TOOTHBRUSH MAKE ME SICK?

Viruses like the flu or gastroenteritis can survive in the air for long hours. They can also pass from one person to another if you share the same toothbrush or if you store every toothbrush in the same cup. Pushing the argument further, some even recommend using a different tube of toothpaste for each person. But at this point it may be bordering on paranoia. However, as long as you practice brushing your teeth twice daily for two minutes each time, the bacteria should not be there.

Source: UFSBD, Colgate,

Maureen Diament

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Your toothbrush is a nest for germs

CAN MY TOOTHBRUSH MAKE ME SICK?

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