An independent health organization in the US reports that it is difficult to tell which room in your house is the germiest of all? The bathroom or the kitchen? The reports mentioned areas of the home where they thought most of the household germs were vs. where they really were.
These are some bacterias they looked for:
- Yeast/mold
- Staph Aureus
- Coliform
Out of all the surveyed homes, 27% of them had Coliform. This also indicated the presence of fecal contamination on the toothbrush holders! How this happens is that the inside of the toothbrush holder is a germ breeding place. That is because almost twice a day, you hang in your wet toothbrush on the holder. When you push your toothbrush inside the holder, the germs rub on to the toothbrush, contaminating it all over. Hence, 64% of toothbrushes holders usually carry yeast and mold.
We recommend you brush your teeth about feet away from your toilet, so germs do not easily get carried on to your toothbrush.
What Are Some Do’s?
- Never share your toothbrush holder; use yours.
- Always brush your teeth at the sink area.
- Wash your hands before brushing your teeth.
- Brush your teeth for at least two minutes with toothpaste.
- Then rinse your toothbrush and ensure you remove food debris.
- You should dry the toothbrush and store it in a dry area.
What Are Some Dont’s?
- Bacteria love damp places, hence do not store your brush in a closed cap or container.
- Do not disinfect your toothbrush by heating it in a microwave. Just buy a new one.
- Never share your toothbrush with anyone.
When Should You Change Your Toothbrush:
- The bristles of your toothbrush fray.
- If you have been sick.
- You haven’t changed your brush for three months now.
To learn more about toothbrushes, call Dr. Millwala at 281-667-0607 to schedule a consultation. Our dedicated team is here to help you!