Personal items are commonly shared among spouses, close friends & siblings and toothbrushes are not left out. This commonly happens when toothbrushes are kept in same place and may mix up. Spouses who share their toothbrush often do not see the reason why they shouldn’t since there is exchange of saliva when they kiss.
Just because you share cutleries with a sibling or friend doesn’t make sharing your toothbrush with them right. The following are reasons why you shouldn’t share your toothbrush with anyone.
- Transmission of infection: the mouth consists of several bacteria and viruses which could be passed on to others by sharing toothbrushes. Common cold and sore throat could be gotten by sharing a toothbrush with someone who has it.
- Risk of Hepatitis/HIV: sometimes the gums bleed while brushing. Sharing a toothbrush with a person who has Hepatitis or someone who is HIV positive puts one at risk.
- Not sharing your toothbrush is crucial in effective tooth brushing. You can be sure your toothbrush is effective for 3 months as against if it is being shared with another individual.
Separate your toothbrush today; make it easy by having a separate color from every other person.
Photo credit: modifylifestyle