You've probably never wondered what's on your toothbrush. Researchers at the University of Manchester did and they discovered how many bacteria live on a toothbrush.
And there are millions of them! But beware, this is no reason to panic. All kinds of micro-organisms live in your mouth and your immune system is perfectly resistant to those bacteria. Common bacteria include E.coli — which also lives in your gut — and staphylococci — which can cause skin and wound infections. So fresh to keep your toothbrush as clean as possible.
Read also: "Is it bad to go to sleep without brushing your teeth?"
Bacteria thrive in a moist environment, so while a case may seem very hygienic, it can actually be a breeding ground for bacteria. Rinse it after use and then let it dry upright. It's also smart to keep your toothbrush as far away from the toilet as possible, because every time you flush you spread a cloud of bacteria through the air. You can also close the toilet lid before flushing. Always use your own brush and do not place several in one glass; every time they touch each other they exchange bacteria.
Your toothbrush should be replaced regularly. With every brushing, you move plaque from your teeth to your brush, which is full of bacteria. So your brush gets a little dirtier every time. Use a toothbrush for up to three months in a row and then replace it, or sooner if the bristles start to separate. This also applies to the brush heads of electric toothbrushes.
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