AND DEFINITELY DON'T SHARE ONE!

Sharing a toothbrush may seem like a convenient (or even romantic) thing to do but it comes with a lot of unnecessary health risks that you should be aware of.

For a start, according to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Microbiology, the mouth is home to more than 700 species of bacteria! Sharing a toothbrush is a sure-fire way to transfer bacteria from one person to another and, whilst not all bacteria is harmful, some like staph and E. coli, can lead to infection and serious health issues.

Brushing sometimes causes the gums to bleed so, as it is not just saliva you are sharing, the health risks are much higher. Some of the scarier illnesses and diseases that can be passed on include herpes, pneumonia and even HIV and HPV. Colds and strep throat are more common and easily spread (particularly amongst children) through toothbrush sharing.

So, if you are ever caught without a toothbrush think twice before sharing one. Whilst nowhere near as effective as brushing with your own toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste some emergency measures you can take include: a plain old swish round the mouth with water; using your (clean) finger and toothpaste if you have it (or some baking soda if not) to rub your teeth cleaner or wrap a paper towel/facecloth round your finger for more thorough plaque removal. Eating celery and plain popping corn also helps give your teeth a clean and chewing sugar free gum helps produce saliva and kills bacteria.

Also remember to keep toothbrushes separate (if the brush heads touch the bacteria we’ve just mentioned is still transferred), keep them clean by pouring boiling water over them every few days or washing with baking powder and/or alcohol and replace toothbrushes or electric brush heads every 3 months.

If you would like to find out more about dental health and hygiene come and see us at Kilbarchan Dental Practice, call 01505 704969 or click www.kilbarchandental.co.uk where you’ll find lots more free tips and advice.