Keep Your Toothbrush Clean | Tips and Tricks for a Healthy Mouth

Mirror, mirror on the wall, what’s the germiest place of all?
Thou, kitchen sponge, is the germiest in the house, so true.
But the toothbrush holder is quite yucky, too.

According to a 2011 study, toothbrush holders are the bathroom items most likely to be contaminated with Coliform, a signal of fecal contamination. They also tend to carry yeast and mold. From the toothbrush holder to the toothbrush into your mouth—you get the picture. It’s not pretty or healthy. 

Coliform is a family of bacteria that contains salmonella and E. coli. Ingesting them can lead to an upset stomach, diarrhea, fever, pain and cramping. It’s similar for yeast and mold.

Breeding ground for germs

The inside of your toothbrush holder is a little-known breeding ground for germs. It’s dark and damp from your soggy toothbrush that re-enters it twice a day. The old germs at the bottom of the container scrape the toothbrush, smearing contamination all over.

To minimize the contamination, here are some do’s and don’ts.

Dental Do’s:

• Use your own toothbrush holders – don’t share!
• Brush only at the sink. Shower water can spread germs from the showerhead to your mouth.
• If possible, brush at least 6 feet away from the toilet.
• Wash your hands before brushing.
• Brush for two minutes with toothpaste.
• Rinse your toothbrush to remove food debris.
• Dry handle and bristles.
• If you’re using a cup as toothbrush holder, run it through the dishwasher each week.
• Consider replacing your cup with a wall-mounted grip holder or a stand with a grid bottom to allow for ventilation.

Dental Don’ts:

• Don’t store your brush in a closed cap or container. Bacteria love it in there.
• Never microwave your toothbrush to clean it. It doesn’t disinfect it. Purchase a new one instead. (Feeling crafty? Make a toothbrush bracelet with the old one.) 
• Never share your toothbrush with your partner, peers or children. Transferring foreign germs is never good. 

   

Also replace your toothbrush if:

• Your toothbrush bristles are fraying.
• You’ve been sick.
• It’s been 3 months since your last toothbrush replacement. A good rule of thumb: When the Earth changes seasons, replace your toothbrush.

What’s the story with the kitchen sponge?

According to the aforementioned study by NSF International, more than 75 percent of kitchen sponges had Coliform bacteria, and the areas in which foods are prepared contained more bacteria and fecal contamination than many other places in the home. 

More recommendations for a healthy smile 

Check out this blog post: What Causes Yellow Teeth? The List of Culprits.

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