That toothbrush you’ve been using since last season is not your friend. It’s a “sloppy” habit that experts warn is a direct threat to your health. A brush older than three months can become a breeding ground for germs that contribute to heart disease and diabetes.
A dental expert states that your toothbrush is your “first line ofdDefense.” Its job is to stop a “biological chain reaction” of germs traveling from your mouth to your heart. An old brush fails this mission, allowing the 700 types of bacteria in your mouth to multiply.
This bacterial overgrowth forms plaque, which triggers severe inflammation. This inflammation is the gateway for bacteria to enter your bloodstream, from which they can “ignite low-grade inflammation across the body,” attacking the heart, liver, and pancreas.
This inflammation is directly linked to atherosclerosis, the hardening of arteries. It also fuels the “vicious cycle” of diabetes, where gum infections and high blood sugar make each other worse.
The warning is clear: replace your toothbrush every three months. A frayed, germ-filled brush is not cleaning your teeth; it’s actively working against you. This, plus flossing and avoiding sugar, is your best defense.