How dramatic is the tap water thing really. Brushing teeth = 3 days sick?

Asked 12 days agoSeen by 309 travellers

Tom•1370 rep•2

Read one blog post that basically said don't even shower with your mouth open. Then someone on reddit said they've been brushing with tap water for a year no issues. What's the actual truth?

asked 12 days ago

Tom•1370 rep•2

3 Answers from travellers

✓Accepted Answer

Nurse here. Brushing with tap water is genuinely fine for most people - the exposure is minimal. What gets people sick: ice from unknown sources, raw salads washed in tap water, uncovered street drinks. Brushing rinse-and-spit is not the concern. That said, if you have a sensitive stomach, use bottled - a 5 rupee habit vs a wrecked vacation.

answered 12 days ago

Nirosha•3220 rep•1

Ok that's a relief. Was picturing brushing with a bottle for 2 weeks lol.

answered 12 days ago

Tom•1370 rep•2

I've lived here 3 years and brush with tap. My mom visits and uses bottled - hasn't been sick either. It's more about food habits than teeth. Keep hand sanitizer, eat where locals eat (busy = fresh), skip ice in beach shacks, and you'll be fine.