Can a Toothbrush Make You Sick?

We all know the importance of good oral hygiene. We brush our teeth two or three times a day. Yet, we may not realize that our toothbrush harbors millions of bacteria. Scientists have found more than 10 million bacteria living on a toothbrush. Here are just a few of the germs growing within the bristles of our toothbrushes: E. coli, staphylococci, and even fecal germs. Yes, �fecal� germs. Yuck!

To avoid a germy toothbrush, here are a few helpful tips to practice:

� Wash hands before and after brushing and flossing

� Never share a toothbrush and avoid storing toothbrushes together� Store the toothbrush away from the toilet� Close the toilet lid before flushing

� Avoid touching the toothbrush to the tip of the toothpaste

� Replace the toothbrush after being sick

� Rinse toothbrush thoroughly after every brush with hot waterBrushing our teeth for two minutes, twice a day is important. The cleanliness of the toothbrush is equally important.

Source:

Bushel, George. �COVID-19: our guide to looking after yourselves and others through better oral hygiene�. Oral Health Foundation, 23 Mar 2020 https://www.dentalhealth.org/blog/covid-19-our-guide-to-looking-after-yourselves-and-others-through-better-oral-hygiene