Many people, during a cold or acute respiratory illness, do everything right when it comes to medicine, rest, hot tea, but forget one small thing: a toothbrush. In reality, the microbes accumulated on the brush used during the illness can be a pretext for a "return" later.
Spanish anesthesiologist David Callejo warned about this, stating that the toothbrush becomes a very convenient "home" for the multiplication of pathogens during colds, diarrhea, or any infection in the oral cavity. That is, when we brush our teeth, bacteria and traces of infection in the mouth move along with the tooth coating to the fibers of the brush.
Here's a simple rule: the longer the brush is used, the more bacteria accumulate in it. Especially if immunity "lowered the regime" during illness, such minor factors increase the likelihood of affecting health.
One of the doctor's most striking comparisons is this: if a person does not change their toothbrush after recovery, the disease can recur. He equates this to "taking a shower and then putting on dirty underwear again." In short, even if your body cleanses itself, the "old trail" might stick to you again.
Another important aspect: if a patient's toothbrush is in the same place as their household's, it increases the risk of infection transmission to others. Because the brushes are kept in a humid environment, where microbes "don't feel bad."
Most practical insights for fans
- Make it a habit to change your toothbrush after fully recovering from a cold or oral infection.
- If you use an electric brush, it's enough to replace the head with a new one.
- Try to keep toothbrushes separate from those at home.
- After using the brush, it is useful to rinse it thoroughly and keep it upright in a dry place.
The conclusion is this: health often comes from such small habits, not from big decisions. Replacing one brush is an inexpensive but effective preventative measure.
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