Should You Switch Out Your Toothbrush After You Get Sick?
May 17, 2022
Maintaining your normal oral hygiene routine is important even when you’re sick. Once you’re recovered, do you need to switch your toothbrush and start with a fresh one? Or is it okay to keep using it?
Can a Toothbrush Spread Disease?
Toothbrushes can hold lots of germs, but for most people, it isn’t necessary to switch out a toothbrush after an illness. This is because your immune system produces antibodies in response to being sick. After you’ve recovered, you now have protection against the same bacteria or viruses that may live on your toothbrush. However, some people have compromised immune systems that can’t fight off reinfection. If you’re concerned, go ahead and change your toothbrush just to be safe.
Can Your Toothbrush Make Someone Else Sick?
During your sickness, do your best to keep your toothbrush separated from other brushes. If you did share a toothbrush holder with someone while sick, it’s a good idea to switch out all the brushes, especially if not everyone caught the illness. Your antibodies may protect you against the germs on your brush, but other family members could get infected.
How to Take Care of Your Toothbrush
If you want to keep your toothbrush as germ-free as possible, don’t share it with anyone else. After brushing, rinse your brush well with water, shake it out, and let it dry in an upright position. Don’t put a cover on it since that keeps the bristles from drying. Moisture encourages bacterial growth. If your toothbrush smells or looks odd, replace it. You should also replace your brush once the bristles start fraying, which is usually after about 3-4 months of use.
Come in for Great Dental Services at Peak Dentistry in Clyde, NC
Drs. Joseph and Gabrielle Ramellini are proud to offer a variety of services like general dentistry, restorative dentistry, and cosmetic treatments. As holistic dentists, they always consider your complete health and wellness. If you have any questions about what we offer or want to schedule an appointment, please contact us today!
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I don’t normally take the time to write reviews, but Peak Dentistry deserves recognition. My husband and I have been so fortunate to be a part of this practice for 10 years driving 2-1/2 hours each way to make our appointments. Drs. Joe and Gabrielle Ramellini, as well as their staff, have provided a level of dental care that reflects their expertise in the work they do that sets them apart as very unique and special. We highly recommend Peak Dentistry to anyone who is interested in quality care you can trust with a personal touch.
Absolutely love the people in this office. Very professional.
New patient visit. Office was beautiful, the treatment was 1st rate in every sense, and I was so impressed with all the latest technology.
The entire staff at Peak Dentistry is amazing, but I would like to highlight my hygienist, Missy, in particular. I went in for a regular teeth cleaning and didn't necessarily expect to be "wowed" but Missy took such care and attention to detail that I walked out of there with the pearliest whites I have ever had. Thank you for giving me such a beautiful white smile, Missy!