Research has shown that couples sharing a toothbrush are at a higher risk of contracting gum disease and other germs. According to Deo Mawona, a senior dental surgeon at SAS Dental Clinic, sharing a toothbrush with someone else is really a poor idea, not simply from a hygienic standpoint, but from a medical standpoint as well.
Some married couples find it comfortable to share their toothbrushes but if not sanitary they expose one another to germs and gum diseases, the first signs can be evident with bad breath.
There is a large difference between kissing somebody or occasionally sharing a dish and using the same toothbrush. The main issue that arises with brushing is that sometimes a toothbrush can cause gums to bleed, which exposes everybody to blood stream diseases. By doing this a couple is sharing much more than a toothbrush they are in fact sharing blood. Bloodstream diseases such as hepatitis are extremely infectious.
Dental cavities are caused by bacteria known as streptococcus mutans that are contagious. When you share a toothbrush, you are prone to getting periodontal diseases. Causative bacteria can easily be passed from person to person by kissing, sharing utensils or toothbrushes.
If you must share a toothbrush because you are on vacation or one of you has lost yours dentists recommend that you use warm water to wash the toothbrush in between uses.
Dentists also recommend that good oral hygiene in general is important for a healthy mouth and teeth. This will help to avoid general periodontal infections such as gum disease. Additionally, many people will use the same toothbrush for far too long a period of time.
You should change your toothbrush every three months and never share it with another person. This is because toothbrushes get worn out just like clothes.
