Here’s the gross truth: your old toothbrush is probably teeming with germs. And according to a dental expert, those germs aren’t just giving you bad breath; they could be increasing your risk for diabetes and heart disease.
A chief clinical officer says your toothbrush is a “gatekeeper.” When it’s new, it stops the 700 species of bacteria in your mouth from forming plaque, causing inflammation, and “silently” traveling to your heart.
But when your brush is old, its bristles are frayed. It can’t clean properly and it “may contain germs which may worsen your oral health.” This allows bacteria to grow, causing inflammation that lets them into your bloodstream.
This is what creates the “vicious cycle” of diabetes, where gum infections and high blood sugar feed each other. It’s also what leads to atherosclerosis (hardened arteries), which puts a huge strain on your heart.
So, do yourself a favor and replace that germy brush every three months. It’s a simple habit that stops inflammation at the source and keeps your whole body safer.