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in collaboration with
Dr Gérald Kierzek (Medical Director of Doctissimo)
An oversight on the weekend and you’re tempted to share a toothbrush with a friend. Error ! This health gesture is not trivial, as Dr. Gérald Kierzek, medical director of Doctissimo, reveals to us.
Most of us are put off by the idea of sharing the intimate object that is the toothbrush. However, a simple oversight during a stay can sometimes raise the question: would it be so bad to use a friend’s toothbrush for 3 minutes? We asked our medical director, Dr. Gérald Kierzek.
Those little things you don’t want to share
The answer is direct: “No, we do not lend our toothbrush to anyone“. Except perhaps to your partner who you are used to kissing, since according to a Dutch study, up to 80 million bacteria already circulate from one mouth to the other during a voluptuous kiss.
Other than that, keep your brush to yourself! Our expert reminds us that: “On this brush there are bacteria, including bacteria that are part of the oral flora which is not the same from one person to another. These bacteria may be responsible for cavities, but others can be more annoying and come from viruses. We can even imagine that bleeding gums could pose a risk of transmission of hepatitis B or C… In short, it is important not to do a bacterial flora transplant.”
Things that we actually don’t want to share.
Keeping your toothbrush healthy, instructions for use
The toothbrush is therefore not a trivial object, and turns out to be more intimate than you think. “This is why, even without lending them, we will prevent the brushes from touching each other in the glass once used, especially in the event of a virus, such as gastro in the family” advises our doctor.
As a reminder, a toothbrush should be changed every 3 months. And can be replaced before that, if it is damaged or if you have been ill. After the brushing session, it is rinsed with water, wringed out and must dry in the open air, not stuck to the neighbors.
Another detail: it is useless and counterproductive to cover it with a cap which would also encourage bacteria. Unless it is to carry it in the toiletry bag.