It is important to clean your home and wash your clothes after you have been sick, but there is also the question of whether or not you should replace your toothbrush. The short answer is yes. According to experts, germs can live on a toothbrush anywhere between 24 hours and a few weeks, depending on the type of illness or bacteria. It is important to replace your toothbrush after being sick to avoid the risk of reinfection.
Apart from replacing your toothbrush, there are some other tips to keep in mind. It is safe to use the same toothbrush while you are sick, but you should make sure to replace it once you are feeling better. Additionally, make sure not to keep the toothbrush covered when it is not in use as this may lead to a higher bacterial count. If you don’t want to throw away your toothbrush, you can disinfect it instead. The American Dental Association suggests replacing toothbrushes every three months, or more often if you are sick. Finally, make sure to use a soft-bristle toothbrush for the best cleaning. If you still feel concerned about your health after following these tips, speak with a doctor or dentist about next steps.