Your toothbrush could breed bacteria

You might not be aware that your toothbrush could be the breeding ground for bacteria. Are you flummoxed as to why you have bleeding gums, foul breath, aching and sensitive teeth, etc. despite maintaining good oral hygiene? The answers to your problems lie right here on your bathroom shelf in your innocuous-looking toothbrush. Germs and bacteria can be easily transferred from your toothbrush to your mouth. An improperly stored toothbrush can very well turn into a storehouse of diseases. In order to ward off illnesses you need to keep your toothbrush in spick-and-span condition. You don't need to buy a fancy sterilisation machine to remove pesky bacteria. Follow these simple steps to clean your toothbrush. 1. Never leave your toothbrushes in a horizontal position after you are done brushing. Keep it standing so that water can easily drain off. Also moisture from the bristles of the brush can easily evaporate when the brush is left standing. Place your brush in one of the holders especially meant for storing toothbrushes. Also ensure that your toothbrush doesn't touch other people's brushes. 2. OK we agree that everyone's not a morning person and it is quite possible to give your toothbrush a feeble rinse while your head's still groggy with sleep. But it would do you a world of good to hold your brush under running water at least for a minute or two. Rinse with a strong mouthwash later. But make sure you rinse out the mouthwash thoroughly to remove the residue left behind by the mouthwash. 3. Douse your toothbrush in boiling water. Although this method will weaken the bristles eventually, it is very effective in killing germs thoroughly. Use this method once a week to minimise damage. 4. Soak you brush in a bowl filled with vinegar for a few minutes and then rinse off with very hot water. Be careful not to scald your hands.