Bacteria, Your Toothbrush, and Your Health

You see and use your toothbrush every day, hopefully two to three times a day. A toothbrush is something you are very familiar with and know how to use it to clean your teeth; however, there are things about your toothbrush that you probably didn't know. As a dentist in Park Ridge, I must inform you about these techniques and tips.

Your toothbrush is full of germs, both good and bad germs. According to recent studies, it was discovered that an uncovered toothbrush can contain more than 100 million bacteria. Remember, everything has bacteria on it, perhaps things you touch every day harbor much more than that, so don't freak out. Hundreds of those microorganisms in our mouths every day which is typical; the problem with having bacteria in our mouth is when there is an unbalance of good and bad. When there is the unbalance, we experience more plaque and cavities.

Is it possible your old toothbrush could make you sick? In reality, chances are it is not unless it is beyond disgusting. The likelihood that your toothbrush is making you sick is pretty small. Many people think that the germs on the toothbrush are why you should replace it every few months; the reason you should replace it every few months is because bristles wear down every few months.

The important thing to remember here is that you should keep your toothbrush away from your toilet. Yes, of course don't let it in your toilet (if it lands in there, throw it away ASAP) but we mean your toothbrush shouldn't be stored right near your toilet either. We get it, your bathroom may or may not be a very large part of your house and your sink is right next to your toilet. However, when you flush your toilet, bacteria is thrown into the air and then lands wherever it wants. If your toothbrush is within striking distance of that bacteria, and your toothbrush is exposed, then it will catch some of that junk.

So what can you do? Keep it in the cupboard, keep it farther away from your toilet, etc. Think of it this way, would you keep your cutlery near your toilet and then use it to eat with? No. Let's hope not, at least. A more realistic example is not washing your hands after the bathroom and then eating.

How should you store it? 

• Keep your toothbrush rinsed. Before you use it, run it under the faucet. After you use it, run it under the faucet. 
• Keep your toothbrush dry. Keep your toothbrush in a spot that allows it to dry completely and not leave moisture behind. Why? Because bacteria love moist environments, that's why. 
• Keep your toothbrush in an upright position. Don't lay it down if you can avoid it. 
• Be selfish, keep your toothbrush as your own. Don't share it. Need this be explained? 

One thing to remember is that if you have dental implants such as dentures, do not use a toothbrush on them. Dentures are softer than teeth and the bristles will create crevices in the teeth that will become breeding grounds for bacteria. 

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us here at Rubino Dentistry.