HEALTH
That's disgusting: Old toothbrushes
A weathered toothbrush isn't a pretty sight. The bristles are bent, the blue stripe has receded past recognition, and it's beginning to taste a bit like last night's dinner. If that reminds you of your time-tested dental hygiene implement, it's time to buy a new one. Not only are old toothbrushes gross-looking, they are downright dirty.
A study by the American Dental Association says toothbrushes can harbor microorganisms and bacteria that can
infections. And, the longer you stick with one brush, the more bacteria it picks up. The ADA recommends using a toothbrush for a maximum of four months.
Dentistry in Lawrence."And that bacteria might not be something you'd want in your mouth."
"A toothbrush will get bacteria from anything it comes into contact with," says Angela Bradley, dental hygienist at Wiklund, Peterson and Krische General
Bradley suggests replacing toothbrushes every three months or when the bristles begin to splay sideways. She says one of the most important steps to keeping a toothbrush clean is consistently rinsing and drying it after use. Rinsing the brush helps shed some of the bacteria, and drying it helps eliminate mold and mildew.
—Asher Fusco
Photo illustration by Ryan McGeeney
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November 6,2008