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You are definitely going to think twice before picking up that magazine at your dentist's waiting room after reading this, as a new study suggests that the magazines can do more harm than good by spreading germs.

Infection experts insist that magazines meant for patients to read should be thrown out after a week and not allowed to pass from one hand to another.

Monica Symes, a dentist in Lyme Regis, Dorset, was advised on the same by an NHS infection control worker and was warned that failing to adhere to guidelines, she may fail an inspection by the Care Quality Commission.

"I can't believe the magazines would pose any risk to patients," Miss Symes, 65, who has practiced for more than 30 years, was quoted as saying by Mail Online.

"Generally we try to keep up-to-date but plenty of old magazines are quite interesting," she added.

Miss Symes was also warned by the advisor, that Blu-tack on posters in her waiting room posed a health risk if re-used.

"Providing magazines in waiting rooms for patients is a good way of helping them relax and can ease the concerns of anxious individuals," Dr. John Milne, chairman of the organization's general practice committee, said according to the report.

The Care Quality Commission emphasized that there has been no ban issued on magazines in waiting rooms and there also aren't any rules about Blu-Tack.

"The only time these things would be an issue would be if they were used in such a way as to compromise someone using the service - and it's pretty hard to see what these circumstances might be," a spokesman said.

Dorset Primary Care Trust said that waiting areas should be kept clear of clutter, while there is no specific time duration within which magazines are supposed to be removed.

"However, practice owners, as part of a regular cleaning schedule, should ensure that the magazines are in good condition and free from obvious contamination. This advice will be kept under review and may be modified in the event of any future community infection outbreaks," it added.