Is it OK to use someone else’s toothbrush?

‘It is completely immoral’

From the ambivalent to the down right disgusted – lock up your toothbrushes, you’re not as safe as you think.

Emma, Business, third year

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No. It’s disgusting. It’s like wearing someone else’s knickers. You know in the morning you don’t kiss someone because – ew. Then you definitely don’t use their toothbrush.

You don’t know where they’ve been.

Josh, Ancient History, third year

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Not generally. I’ve used my girlfriend’s or family members’ if I’ve forgotten mine.

But I wouldn’t go as far as using a friend’s one.

Steph, History, third year

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I don’t think that is okay no. Using someone else’s is pretty sly, I would be pretty annoyed if someone used mine.

Oh gosh, but then what if they needed it? But that is not how I have been brought up, absolute filth.

Ollie, Neuroscience, third year

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Yes. I used to be very adverse to it and then I went travelling. I got into a few desperate situations and had to use someone else’s and now I’m over it.

But sharing gum or ice-cream is still just not okay.

Ellie, English Literature and Philosophy, second year

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My immediate answer is no. It is so personal, it is like kissing through a tooth brush. If it was my boyfriend then fine but it is still a bit grim.

The worst would be if someone used yours and did not tell you, it is completely immoral and you don’t have a chance to wash it out properly, it would be like they are laughing at you.

Sam, Geology, third year

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I think it’s a bit gross, but I would get over it. I have boundaries, family no, friends yes.

But it is actually not that big of a deal.

Laura, Economics, third year

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I’d say no. I guess if I didn’t know then I wouldn’t care if it was a close friend.

But I would probably just give them mouthwash.

Mike, History, third year

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Well that depends on trust, if you know someone really well then it is not a bother, other than that it is odd.

But I don’t really mind, I’m a student, germs don’t really factor into my life.

Sues, English Literature, third year

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Obviously I wouldn’t out of choice, but there are worse things in life. To be honest, I have shared toothbrushes with friends and boyfriends and it isn’t a big deal.

I would rather that than not brush my teeth.