Monday, July 19, 1999

Toothbrush can harbor many germs

By MELISSA KOSSLER
NEWS-JOURNAL STAFF REPORT

When Howard S. Glazer´s daughter went away to college, he felt the concerns most parents do when their children leave the nest.

But when Glazer paid a visit to his daughter at her apartment, he developed a new worry.

The New Jersey dentist noticed that his daughter and her roommates were storing their toothbrushes together in one container. Glazer became concerned that germs could spread from one brush to another.

Although there have been no studies investigating the possible transfer of oral microorganisms from one toothbrush to another, many studies have shown that toothbrushes easily can become heavily contaminated with them, he said.

Dr. Daniel Barnes, a Port Orange children´s dentist, said he´s not too concerned about families´ sharing a toothbrush container but, he added, proper storage and regularly replacing your brush are important.

It´s best to store your brush upright so excess water can run off. That position also allows air to circulate around the brush.

If you´re really concerned about germs, consider rinsing or soaking your brush in Listerine mouthwash, Barnes said.

A thorough rinsing after each brush is important, said Linda Akel, a Daytona Beach dental hygienist.

It´s also necessary to let your toothbrush dry between uses because a wet brush can be too soft. A few taps at the side of the sink will help shake out excess water, the hygienist advises.

Akel suggests having two toothbrushes one for morning and one for evening. That way you´ll always have a dry brush to use, she said.

Glazer suggests using a toothbrush cover if you share a toothbrush container and are worried about the spread of germs. However, Akel expressed concern that a toothbrush cover may prevent the toothbrush from properly drying out.

Toothbrush cases can breed germs if they are not properly cleaned, she said.

If you plan to use a toothbrush case, choose one that is designed to allow air to pass in and out, Glazer said.

Regularly replacing your toothbrush is critical to good dental hygiene. Most dentists recommend a new brush every three to six months.

It´s also a good idea to buy a new brush after you´ve been sick.

If you´re taking an antibiotic, change your brush after you´ve been on the medication for 48 hours, Glazer advised.

Family members, particularly children who may have cuts or sores in their mouth, should never share a toothbrush, Akel said.

"It´s not a good idea to let anyone else use your toothbrush. We each have different kinds of bacteria in our mouths," she said.

"It´s not a good idea even for a husband and wife."

Tips on storing, cleaning

Here are some tips to keep your toothbrush germ-free:

Store your brush upright so excess water can run off.

Rinse or soak your brush in antibacterial mouthwash.

Thoroughly rinse your brush after each use.

Tap brush on the side of the sink to shake out excess water, then dry thoroughly.

Use separate brushes mornings and evenings.

Use a toothbrush cover that is designed to allow air to pass in and out.

Regularly replace your toothbrush every three to six months is recommended.

Buy a new toothbrush after you´ve been sick. If you´re taking an antibiotic, change your brush after you´ve been on the medication for 48 hours.

Never share a toothbrush, even with your spouse.

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