Wellness
Dentist makes the internet’s skin crawl by sharing hygiene fact about our toothbrushes
This is so gross. I will definitely be taking her advice.
Jenny Brown
11.14.23

Let’s dive into a topic that might just make your skin crawl – the cleanliness of your toothbrush.

Dr. Ellie Phillips, a dentist with an eye for detail, has shared some startling insights that could revolutionize the way you think about oral hygiene.

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Pexels - ricardo rojas

Imagine this: your toothbrush, a tool designed for cleanliness, could actually be a haven for mold and harmful bacteria.

Shocking, right?

Dr. Phillips points out that toothbrushes can become extremely dirty, particularly when stored in humid environments like bathrooms

.

This humidity is a paradise for mold growth, allowing bacteria to thrive deep within the bristles of your toothbrush.

It’s a disturbing thought that the very item we use to clean our teeth might be undermining our oral health.

Now, you might be thinking, “Can’t I just clean the bristles thoroughly or boil them?”

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Pexels - cottonbro studio

Unfortunately, Dr. Phillips has some disappointing news.

She explains that these methods are ineffective against the biofoam bacteria that settle in toothbrushes.

The only real solution?

Letting your toothbrush dry out completely for a full 24 hours.

She suggests placing it in a cup or on ice to air dry.

But wait, there’s more.

If your bathroom is frequently used or particularly damp, it’s not the ideal place for your toothbrush to dry.

Dr. Phillips advises finding a drier location, like your bedroom or kitchen, or even better, a sunny spot like a window sill.

The sunlight can aid in the drying process, helping to keep your toothbrush free from unwanted microbial guests.

Here comes the real game-changer: Dr. Phillips recommends using two toothbrushes.

Yes, two – one for the morning and another for the evening.

This strategy ensures that each toothbrush has ample time to dry out before its next use.

While it might earn you the quirky title of ‘two-toothbrush kid’, it’s a small price to pay for the assurance of a mold-free brushing experience.

This revelation has certainly resonated with many.

People have expressed their newfound concerns, with some even sharing that they’ve already stopped storing their toothbrush in the bathroom to escape the dampness.

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Pexels - cottonbro studio

So, what’s the takeaway from all this?

A little adjustment in your daily routine and an extra toothbrush might seem trivial, but they can make a significant difference in your oral health.

It’s about being proactive and mindful of the unseen dangers lurking in everyday objects.

By following Dr. Phillips’ advice, you’re not just maintaining oral hygiene; you’re taking a stand against hidden health hazards.

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Pexels - Ron Loach

In conclusion, this isn’t just about keeping your toothbrush clean; it’s about rethinking our habits for a healthier lifestyle.

So, next time you brush your teeth, remember Dr. Phillips’ words and consider the unseen battles being fought on the bristles of your toothbrush.

Click the video below to hear Dr. Phillips’ full explanation!

Please SHARE this with your friends and family.

@drelliephillips Replying to @✰ T A T A ✰ Why you need two toothbrushes and not just one. #healthyteeth #healthymouth #oralhealth #teethtok #toothtok ♬ Echos in My Mind (Lofi) – Muspace Lofi

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