Oral Health Link to Whole Body Health: A Blog

Toilet Brush Or Toothbrush: The Shocking Microbes Hidden In Your Bristles

9 July 2015

Duane Kelly

If you share a bathroom, you may wish to pay more attention to toothbrush hygiene. The American Society for Microbiology recently discovered that 60 percent of toothbrushes from the communal bathrooms used in their study contained faecal matter. Contaminated toothbrushes can pose a health risk. It is important to understand the types of infection you might develop and take steps to keep your toothbrush sanitised.

Lurking Infections

The average person will not usually face major health problems from his or her toothbrush. However, if you have been ill, or have a weakened immune system, you should take extra care to avoid these possible risks.

The spray from toilet water can be responsible for causing Norovirus. Typically, this will cause gastrointestinal discomfort that lasts for two to three days. It is highly contagious.

Whilst faecal matter is one unpleasant surprise lurking on your toothbrush, other bacteria may also be present. If you have been infected with a strep throat, for example, it is possible that streptococcal bacteria could remain on your toothbrush and cause a reinfection.

In a communal bathroom, a range of diseases might be transferred to your toothbrush if the bristles touch another one nearby. Colds and viruses such as hepatitis B and C could be passed on in this manner. If you share a toothpaste tube, it is also possible that bacteria and viruses are present on the rim.  

Germ Warfare

A few simple hygiene practices will give you peace of mind and ensure that your toothbrush isn't a hidden threat to your health.

Close the lid: Strong evidence suggests putting the toilet lid down to flush greatly reduces the chances of your toothbrush harbouring faecal matter.

Use good quality toothpaste: Most toothpastes contain antibacterial substances. These fight oral bacteria and help to kill any germs on your toothbrush. Similarly, any germs on the rim of the tube should be disarmed.

Wash and Dry: It may be tempting to keep your toothbrush hidden away in a box, but this allows germs to breed. Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after brushing and allow it to air dry. If you are particularly concerned, you could soak your toothbrush in an antibacterial mouthwash after use.

Claim Your Space: Store your toothbrush in its own holder where it cannot touch others. Do not use other people's toothbrushes or allow them to use yours.

Change Regularly: Once the bristles on your toothbrush start to bend or splay, buy a new one. Depending on how hard you brush, this may be every two to three months. If you suspect that your brush has been contaminated in some way, throw it out.

Sparkling Clean

Make sure that you don't flush away your health due to careless toothbrush hygiene. Follow these steps and talk with a professional at a dental clinic for further recommendations about toothbrushes and their care.

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