Are you guilty of not cleaning your toothbrush enough, or at all? American doctor Dr. Joe Whittington has some surprising advice that might change your oral hygiene routine and your heart health for the better.
Most of us don’t even know that cleaning your toothbrush is something you should be doing! So the following advice may come as a surprise…
Dr. Whittington recommends washing your toothbrush bristles with soap and water every night to combat the buildup of harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
He suggests that this simple habit can have a significant impact on your overall health in just 30 seconds a day.
Recent studies have shown a connection between oral bacteria and heart health, making proper toothbrush hygiene even more crucial. Dr. Whittington suggests soaking the bristles in hydrogen peroxide or antibacterial mouthwash weekly to minimise bacterial growth.
@drjoe_md Washing your toothbrush with soap and water each night can significantly reduce the accumulation of bacteria, viruses, and fungi on its bristles and handle. This practice helps prevent the introduction of bacteria, viruses and fungi in the mouth. Also, recent studies have suggested a link between oral bacteria and cardiovascular health, indicating that maintaining oral hygiene might also contribute to heart health. So, a clean toothbrush is more effective at removing plaque, which is crucial not only for dental health but potentially for preventing cardiovascular disease as well. It’s important to thoroughly rinse the toothbrush to remove any soap before use to ensure safety. #dental #hearthealth #healthtips #healthyliving #doctor ♬ original sound – Dr. Joe, M.D. 🩺
If your toothbrush starts looking worse for wear or you experience throat issues, it’s time to replace it. Dentists warn that toothbrushes can harbour over 100 million bacteria, emphasising the importance of regular cleaning and storage practices.
So, don’t forget to give your toothbrush some love—it’s a small step with big benefits!