Your toothbrush might be making you sick.

We know. Ew. Double ew. Triple ew, too.

Your toothbrush is supposed to keep your teeth healthy, not make you sick. But alas. A study conducted by the New York State Dental Journal found that as many as 70 percent of toothbrushes are contaminated with bacteria. The flu virus, staph bacteria, E. coli, yeast fungus and strep: These are only a few of the nasty germs researchers have found lurking on the normal, everyday toothbrush, which begs the question:

Is your toothbrush making you sick?

Though pretty unlikely thanks to good oral hygiene, a robust immune system, and twice yearly visits to Railroad Dental Associates for a dental check up and cleaning — your toothbrush might be making you sick. It’s time to do something about that. It’s time to sanitize and disinfect, and change the way we store our toothbrushes. 47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease.That’s where the danger lies.

Of course, they sit on the counter in moist, steamy air… and next to the toilet. We don’t even think about it; that’s just what we’ve always done. But the truth is, when you know better you can do better.

Disinfect your toothbrush with hydrogen peroxide and/or very hot water, and other tips to stay healthy while brushing your teeth:

• Wash your hands well before and after brushing.
• Throw out the old, and replace your toothbrush after you’ve had a cold or the flu. Or every three months. Your tooth brush should be replaced every three months.
• Store your toothbrush in a cool, dry place away from the toilet. (Always close the lid before you flush the toilet, or risk poo particles infecting your brush and your mouth.)
• Do not share your toothbrush with anyone.
• Let your brush air-dry before capping and storing it away.
• If someone in your family is sick, or you are, use a different tube of toothpaste.