Dentists Are Begging You To Make One Important Change After Having COVID (Or Any Other Illness)
Reports of the new COVID variant Eris is a sobering reminder that the disease never left us. Cold, flu and COVID season is officially approaching, making it an ideal time to brush up on common-sense hygiene routines, like washing hands regularly. However, hands aren't the only place viruses spread. Droplets come from our mouths when we cough and sneeze.
It begs the question: Should you get a new toothbrush after COVID-19 (or another infection)?
"It’s no secret that toothbrushes harbor germs," says Bill Busch, DMD, MAGD, the owner and founder of NKC Dental, the team dentist for the Kansas City Chiefs and the founder of TeamSmile.
And people want to avoid germs from viruses and other illnesses like the plague come sick season (or any season, really).
"People may be nervous because they are worried about becoming re-infected with the germs that made them sick and are still on the toothbrush," says Jeffrey Sulitzer, DMD, the Chief Clinical Officer of SmileDirectClub.
Should they be worried? Dentists divulge the details below.
Related: The Most Common Symptoms of the New COVID Variant Eris
Do You Need To Replace Your Toothbrush After Having COVID-19?
Yes, you should throw out your toothbrush after a COVID-19 infection.
"You want to contain the spread of germs and ensure proper oral hygiene," Dr. Busch says. "There are families that share toothbrush holders, and it’s an easy place to spread bacteria."
Dr. Sulitzer agrees. In fact, he suggests people change toothbrushes after any illness. That includes the common upper-respiratory viruses that spread throughout the winter—RSV, the flu and even common colds.
"People should throw out their toothbrush after having any sickness since bacteria and other microbes can live on your toothbrush for many days," says Dr. Sulitzer.
Additionally, timing is important when replacing the toothbrush. "As a general rule, I recommend using a new toothbrush after the symptoms of your illness subside," Dr. Busch advises.
Upper-Respiratory Illnesses Aren't the Only Sicknesses That Warrant a Toothbrush Swap
Upper respiratory illnesses are a point of focus every winter. However, they're not the only way to get sick. Strep throat, a bacterial infection, and Herpes simplex are two other common ones. Herpes is known for spreading sexually but can also spread through saliva and present as cold sores. So, what about those? Do they require a breakup with your toothbrush?
"We recommend changing your toothbrush following Herpes simplex infection as the Herpes virus can be active outside the body sometimes for days," says Alexander Vaiman, DDS of New York Family Dental Arts. "I would [also] recommend changing a brush following a strep infection because bacteria tend to last longer on moist surfaces."
Other Tips for Oral Hygiene During and After a COVID Infection
1. Wash your hands
Experts have been stressing it since 2020: hand-washing is crucial all the time, especially during a surge in COVID or other illnesses.
"You should consider washing your hands each time before handling your toothbrush to reduce germ spread," Dr. Busch says. "It’s always good to start anything with clean hands."
2. Send your toothbrush to quarantine
Practice social distancing, toothbrush-style, if you live with roommates or family members.
"If you have COVID and you share a toothbrush holder, remove your brush and isolate it from the group," Dr. Busch says.
Dr. Busch also recommends sanitizing the holder, adding that this step should be taken once per month regardless of your health status.
3. Clean your toothbrush
Don't stick your toothbrush in its isolated spot and move on.
"Always rinse your toothbrush fully in warm water and let it dry," says Dr. Busch.
4. Sharing is not caring
Perhaps you left your toothbrush at home while sleeping with a partner. You might be tempted to just close your eyes, look the other way and "borrow" their toothbrush. Just once won't hurt, right?
If the partner has COVID, it could get you sick.
"Microorganisms can be transferred between people via the toothbrush," Dr. Busch says. "Much is still to be understood about COVID, but I would say, as with any virus, taking precautionary measures could lessen the spread of germs."
"Sharing a toothbrush is never a good idea," Dr. Busch stresses.
How Often Should You Replace a Toothbrush Normally?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends replacing a toothbrush every three to four months. Dr. Sulitzer suggests doing it on the earlier side of this recommendation: "You should replace your toothbrush every three months to make sure the bacteria doesn’t build up and the bristles are effective."
Next up: Dentists Are Begging You to Ditch a Super-Popular Product—Here's Why
Sources
Dr. Bill Busch, DMD, MAGD, the owner and founder of NKC Dental, the team dentist for the Kansas City Chiefs and the founder of TeamSmile
Jeffrey Sulitzer, DMD, the Chief Clinical Officer of SmileDirectClub
Dr. Alexander Vaiman, DDS of New York Family Dental Arts
