Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for a healthy smile.
However, even with the best brushing techniques, if you neglect the proper storage of your toothbrush, you might be unknowingly exposing yourself to harmful bacteria.
Here are common mistakes people make when storing their toothbrushes by Healthshots:
You store it close to the toilet bowl
The main error lies in storing your toothbrush in the bathroom. When you flush, water splashes, potentially reaching your toothbrush. To prevent potential bacterial contamination, it’s crucial to keep your toothbrush far from the toilet.
You’re not using a toothbrush cap
A lot of these issues can be alleviated by merely placing a cover on your toothbrush. This diminishes the likelihood of bacteria thriving on it.
You store all toothbrushes together
This is a prevalent oversight that most of us make unconsciously. In our households, we tend to keep our toothbrushes in a single location, allowing their bristle heads to come into contact. Unfortunately, this only facilitates a broader dissemination of bacteria.
You store it in your medicine cabinet
Storing your toothbrush in the medicine cabinet isn’t advisable either. The moisture-rich environment, compounded by the dampness from your toothbrush, can create favorable conditions for pathogens to flourish. In an enclosed space, your toothbrush is unable to fully dry, further posing a potential risk.
You’re not storing it in an upright position
If you leave your toothbrush lying flat on the counter after use, it can lead to problems. Your toothbrush should be positioned upright to allow proper drying. A damp toothbrush will always provide a favorable environment for bacteria to thrive.
Hence, it’s not sufficient to just follow good dental hygiene practices. It’s also crucial to store your toothbrush in the correct manner to prevent it from becoming a breeding ground for bacteria.
Also see: The amazing health benefits of grapes
