Should I Replace My Toothbrush After Being Sick?

should I replace my toothbrush after being sick, do I need a new toothbrush after a cold

Should I Replace My Toothbrush After Being Sick?

After you recover from a cold, the flu, or a viral infection like covid, it may be a good idea to replace your toothbrush. After all, it has your old sick germs on it, right? Well, maybe. There isn’t a strong enough body of evidence to prove whether or not it’s entirely necessary. And when in doubt, you can always sanitize your toothbrush if it’s still in good condition. Let’s explore this dilemma in more detail, so you can understand if you should replace your toothbrush after being sick. 

Do I Need a New Toothbrush After a Cold or Flu?

If you were only sick for a short time and you always rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after each use, you can probably sanitize it and hang onto it. However, if you had a prolonged illness or it’s been a while since you last changed your toothbrush, it may be time for a replacement

Pros and Cons of Replacing Your Toothbrush After Being Sick

 

Pros:

  • Avoid potential contamination
  • Feel fresh and hygienic 
  • Get peace of mind
  • Clean your teeth better with new bristles

 

Cons:

  • Unnecessary replacement cost
  • Added waste
  • Health benefits aren’t certain 

 

While the cost of a new toothbrush is minimal, replacing it frequently contributes to plastic waste, which impacts the environment. Some people prefer to disinfect their toothbrushes after being sick instead of tossing them. 

However, if you were sick off-and-on for a while, or if your toothbrush is reaching the end of its lifespan, go ahead and swap it for a new one! Replacing your toothbrush after you’re sick offers an extra layer of protection against reinfection. 

How to Sanitize a Toothbrush

Toothbrushes gather germs from the bacteria in our mouths, the environment in the bathroom, unwashed hands, and other contaminants. The storage container you keep your toothbrush in can gather germs as well! The best way to get rid of all those germs is to regularly sanitize your toothbrush and its holder. Here are three effective methods you can try. 

1: Boiling Water

Boil a pot of water and let it cool briefly before dipping your toothbrush in. Keep it there for about one minute.

2: Mouthwash Soak

Pour mouthwash into a small cup or a shot glass—use enough to cover all the bristles. Soak for about five minutes, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely before using. 

3: UV Light 

Place your toothbrush inside an ultraviolet light sanitizer device to kill bacteria. There are several options ranging from personal size to family size. 

Comprehensive Dental Care in Sun Lakes, Arizona

Maintaining healthy teeth requires good toothbrush care, excellent oral hygiene, and regular trips to the dentist. At Dr. Saba & Dr. Chiappetti Associates, we provide gentle, thorough cleanings and a variety of preventive dental services to keep your teeth and gums in the best possible condition. If you’re due for a dental checkup, please give us a call to schedule an appointment. 

 

Image by Leopictures from Pixabay on 11.30.2024 | used under creative commons license