Using the same old toothbrush for months? Or worse, borrowing someone else’s? A dental expert calls this “sloppy” behavior a direct risk for major diseases, not just a cavity.
“A toothbrush is your first line of defense,” explains a chief clinical officer. You’re not just scrubbing your teeth; you’re “interrupting a biological chain reaction” where germs travel from your mouth to your heart.
The problem is, your mouth has 700 kinds of bacteria. When you use a “sloppy,” old brush, you’re not cleaning them. They form plaque, inflame your gums, and then “enter the bloodstream.” From there, they can attack your heart, liver, and pancreas.
This inflammation can “cause arteries to stiffen,” leading to heart disease. It also messes with your blood sugar, making diabetes harder to control in a “vicious cycle.”
Don’t be sloppy. The rule is simple: get a new toothbrush every three months. The bristles on your old one are frayed and can’t do the job. This simple change is a powerful way to protect your health.