You wouldn't think of sharing your toothbrush. Not even with a family member. But it takes more than sole proprietorship to avoid partnering infection.

Studies show that toothbrushes can become heavily contaminated with oral bacteria. Because most families store toothbrushes in a common storage space, airborne bacteria can move from toothbrush to toothbrush, passing opportunistic infections such as periodontal (gum) disease and the common cold from one person to another.