‘I’m a dentist – here’s why you should never keep your toothbrush near the toilet’

Keeping your toothbrush in the bathroom may seem like a convenient choice, but according to experts, it might not be the best idea for your oral health. Dr. Ellie Phillips, DDS, an oral health educator from Austin, Texas, has a disturbing reason why she advises against keeping your toothbrush near the toilet.

“The bacteria from the toilet will land on your toothbrush,” she warned. “And your toothbrush picks up all the bacteria in your mouth in a single use.” Phillips explained that if you were to send a brand-new toothbrush to a lab after just one use, they could provide you with a full profile of the bacteria in your mouth.

In a toothbrush with dense bristles, bacteria can easily multiply and become more aggressive over time. Phillips emphasized that exposure to toilet bacteria or bathroom air can create a worse scenario, as you could end up sharing bacteria with those you live in close proximity to.

This exposure to bacteria can contribute to the development of dental diseases that may take a long time to manifest. To combat this issue, Phillips recommends brushing your teeth in the kitchen sink if keeping your toothbrush away from the toilet is not an option. Additionally, she advises allowing your toothbrush to fully dry after use, as this can help kill bacteria.

When it comes to choosing a toothbrush, Phillips suggests opting for a medium-bristled toothbrush with lots of bristles at different lengths. This type of toothbrush can effectively clean your mouth and dry itself, reducing the risk of bacterial contamination.

While you don’t need to splurge on an expensive toothbrush, Phillips emphasized the importance of using a toothbrush that is not too soft and is effective at cleaning. By maintaining a healthy mouth with a balance of healthy bacteria, you can create a protective barrier that helps fend off harmful bacteria.

In conclusion, it’s essential to pay attention to where you store your toothbrush and how you care for it to ensure optimal oral health. By following these tips from dental experts like Dr. Ellie Phillips, you can keep your teeth bright, white, and healthy for years to come.