A new study has shown that bacteria on a toothbrush can remain there for up to a month, so if you have a bad cold that you simply can’t shake, it may be that you are continually infecting yourself every time you brush your teeth.

Dr. Douglas Hanson, who operates Hanson Family Dentistry in Val Caron, advises that people should pay more attention to their toothbrushes when they are ill. "If you have had a cold or the flu, or some other infection such as sinusitis, pneumonia or even an upset stomach, it is a good idea to either replace your toothbrush or find some way of disinfecting it before you continue to use it." Otherwise, claimed Hanson, you could be extending your recovery time.

While it may sound like common sense, it is also advisable that toothbrushes be kept separate from those of other members of the family. In many medicine cabinets, the toothbrushes are all kept in close proximity, or even in the same large container with different compartments which are open to splashing when brushes are taken out or put back. This can help spread infections to other members of the family. So to protect yourself from illness, wash your hands, get plenty of rest and change your toothbrush often.