Your Toothbrush

As you reach for your toothbrush everyday, you may not realize what is hanging out on its bristles.  Viruses and bacteria from an infected persons mouth can live for weeks on a toothbrush surface and can continue to cause illness.  Most people don’t even think about cleaning their toothbrush, since you are wetting it everyday to scrub your teeth.  After brushing, give your toothbrush a thorough rinse with tap water to remove debris.  If you have had a systemic illness or immune disorder you should soak it in antibacterial mouthwash.  There are toothbrush sanitizers on the market you can consider.  After use, store your toothbrush upright in a cup or holder to dry out, it should not touch other toothbrushes.  Replace your toothbrush every three months or when it shows signs of wear.  Frayed bristles will not clean teeth and gums adequately.  Throw away a toothbrush anyone in your house used while they were sick.  Never, ever share a toothbrush, toothbrush sharing can transfer saliva and bacteria.  Tooth decay is considered an infectious disease – a good reason not to share a toothbrush.  It is recommended that you keep a supply of new toothbrushes on hand to be able to change to a new one when needed.  De Hart Plumbing, serving Manhattan Kansas, Junction City Kansas and Wamego Kansas.