RT

We all know that maintaining oral hygiene is very important and the most important step to do this is to brush your teeth twice a day with mouthwash and floss.

But according to experts, you could be putting your oral hygiene at risk by storing your toothbrush in the bathroom.

“Storing your toothbrush in the bathroom can expose you to a variety of health problems, but the level of risk varies depending on the bathroom environment and your specific habits,” explains Dr. Payal Bhalla, principal dentist and medical director of Quest Dental.

Dr. Balla says that aerosolized bacteria can pose a problem because “when you flush the toilet, especially when the lid is open, small droplets containing bacteria and other microorganisms can splash out and settle on nearby surfaces, including your toothbrush.”

When your toothbrush is near the toilet, it’s “more likely to come into contact with airborne particles and water splashes” that “lead to contamination.”

Bathrooms can also be a humid environment, which can encourage the growth of bacteria and mold on your toothbrush.

In shared bathrooms, “there is a greater potential for cross-contamination as multiple people use the space and touch different surfaces.”

As for faecal particles, which can be on your toothbrush, Dr. Bhalla explains: “It’s possible to have faecal particles in the bathroom environment, including surfaces like your toothbrush. This can happen when toilets are cleaned. Not closing the lid, and brushing can release small droplets of faecal bacteria and other microbes into the air. .To reduce the risk of faecal particles coming into contact with your toothbrush, you can follow hygiene tips such as rinsing your toothbrush before using it, storing it upright, covering it with the toothbrush, and closing the toilet lid when washing.

She also recommends “rinsing your toothbrush thoroughly under tap water before using it” because it “will help remove any potential contaminants. Also place your toothbrush upright in a toothbrush cup and allow it to air dry. Make sure it doesn’t touch other toothbrushes. ” To prevent cross contamination.

Dr. Bhalla emphasized the importance of changing toothbrushes “every three to four months or so” to keep them healthy and effective.

He added: “To reduce the spread of airborne particles, close the toilet lid before cleaning, use a breathable toothbrush cover to protect your toothbrush from bathroom contaminants, and regularly clean the toothbrush holder or cup to prevent bacteria and mold build-up. “