The pitfalls of sharing your toothbrush with others

• Posted on: May 15 2021
• By: henley.tabal

When we were little, we were always encouraged to share. Because sharing is caring, right? Not always. There are some situations in which you shouldn’t be sharing, and this holds true in regards to sharing a toothbrush. You might not think much of sharing a toothbrush, especially with a spouse or child, but there are viable concerns when it comes to using someone else’s toothbrush. 

Toothbrushes are critical for cleaning the mouth, and that being said, it is no surprise that the mouth is full of bacteria, food debris, and plaque. When an individual shares their toothbrush with someone else, they are also sharing this bacteria that can make them more susceptible to problems such as periodontal disease, tooth decay, and other oral infections such as herpes. This is why any dentist will advise a patient to avoid sharing their toothbrush with anyone else—or using someone else’s in a pinch. 

If you truly love your children or spouse, you will avoid sharing your toothbrush. It’s okay to be selfish with a toothbrush, as it can be a great way to prevent the spread of oral diseases. Patients who share a toothbrush with someone who is sick with a cold or flu may put themselves at risk of developing that same sickness. It’s just a good idea to avoid sharing toothbrushes. 

How often should I change my toothbrush? 

In addition to avoiding sharing a toothbrush, patients should be prudent about changing out their toothbrush regularly. It is recommended that patients throw away and replace their toothbrush every three months. If an individual has recently been sick, they should also replace their toothbrush, even if it has not been used for three months. This helps patients avoid reinfection. 

Interested in other situations that might contribute to poor oral health? 

Call Smile Texas today at (281) 265-7645 to request a consultation visit with our team of professionals, including Drs. Rick Kline and Bret Davis. We can help patients in the Sugar Land, TX area learn about ways to care for their smile and reduce their risk of developing problems such as periodontal disease and tooth decay. The office is located at 4665 Sweetwater Boulevard, Ste. #450 and accepts new patients.  

Posted in: Gum Disease