Do Cold Germs Live on Toothbrushes?
You may not view your toothbrush as a germ carrier, but depending on how humid and dirty your bathroom is, cold germs can flourish there. In the 1970s, University of Arizona researchers learned that each time you flush a toilet, droplets can spray onto your walls, shelves, towels and toothbrushes, up to 6 feet away. Families who keep toothbrushes close to each other may have bacteria bouncing from one brush to another.
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Germ Growth
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The Centers for Disease Control and researchers have disputed whether reusing a properly handled toothbrush can make you ill. Some experts contend that germs left on toothbrushes can cause infections, especially colds and gingivitis.
The bathroom is usually the second dirtiest room in your home, after the kitchen. To prevent illnesses, it's a good idea to disinfect the sink, countertop, bathtub and toilet on a weekly basis.
Flushing a toilet with the lid up spreads germs, said Charles Gerba, a microbiology professor at the University of Arizona in Tucson. Polluted water vapor erupts from the toilet bowl, and it might take several hours for particles to eventually settle somewhere you might not want them. If your toothbrush is too close to the toilet, you might as well brush your teeth with germs from your toilet.
Life of a Germ
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Germs can live outside the body from a few seconds to 48 hours, depending on the virus and the surface, says Dr. James M. Steckelberg.
Flu viruses usually survive longer on surfaces than cold viruses do. Both kinds of viruses probably live longer on nonporous surfaces, such as plastic, metal and wood, than on porous ones, including fabrics, your skin or paper.
Bacteria on Your Brush
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Toothbrushes can harbor bacteria, viruses and fungus, says Dr. Irwin Malitz of Chicago. He recommends getting a new toothbrush if you've had a cold, cold sores or an infection; dropped it on the floor, in a contaminated bathtub or other place; or shared it with someone.
Every time you brush, you remove plaque and particles, often tainting the brush with bacteria, blood, saliva and other debris. The pollution can come back to infect you.
Bacteria thrive in moist environments such as the bathroom. E. coli bacteria living on your toothbrush can cause infections and death if left untreated.
Replace Your Toothbrush
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Not only are older toothbrushes more likely to host bacteria, they become less helpful in cleaning bacteria in your mouth. Sharp edges can cut gums, giving bacteria a place to thrive and cause illness or infection.
Most of us replace our toothbrush once every nine months, but dentists recommend buying a new one after three months or less.
Stop the Spread
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Preventing cold germs from spreading is simple.
Because 3.2 million microbes per square inch may live in your toilet bowl, keep the lid down when flushing.
The CDC suggests rinsing your toothbrush thoroughly after brushing and letting it air dry, standing upright.
If you're still concerned or want to save money on an electric toothbrush head, you may also run your toothbrushes through the dishwasher. The dishwasher won't harm toothbrushes, and the hot water will probably kill most germs.
You can also soak your toothbrush for 20 minutes in an antiseptic mouthwash, or buy a toothbrush purifier at the drugstore.
Dentists recommend placing your toothbrushes at least an inch apart in the holder so that germs don't travel from one brush to another.
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