Sterilizing Your Toothbrush

⭐️⭐️BE-Practical Series⭐️⭐️

Oral microbiota is a hot research topic and within the next five years we will hopefully have a better understanding of the role these bacteria play in the lung microbiome. Although it is hard to believe, we have over 700 different types of bacteria in our mouths! Some are good, some not so good and some we aren’t sure of. 

For those of us who have dealt with NTM infections like MAC, the good news is NTM are generally not found in the oral cavity. However, when we cough and secretions enter our mouth, they could end up on our toothbrush.

A dab of dish soap and a scrubbing will help clean your toothbrush, and if you have a baby bottle sterilizer, you might see if your toothbrush can withstand the heat. My client put his toothbrush in a microwave bag for three minutes and it bent, so I would avoid this method or try it for a shorter time. 

I recently treated myself to this mini UV device I found on Amazon. I pop my toothbrush into it after each use and also take it on trips. It isn’t a “must-have” device, but it is reasonably priced and easy to use. 

In addition, its a good idea to maintain a healthy mouth with good oral hygiene and regular dentist visits. Don’t forget to get your complimentary toothbrush from the hygienist! You might want to consider using a new one every month.


#oralhygiene #toothdecay #bronchiectasis #dentistvisits #uvsterilizers #ntm #ntmlungdisease #maclungdisease #cysticfibrosis #pseudomonas #haemophilus