How Often Should You Really Replace Your Toothbrush?

While brushing your teeth have you ever though, “I wonder if I should replace my toothbrush?”……

Most of us likely haven’t given it much thought – unless you are in the dental field….

Your toothbrush is your main tool for keeping your mouth healthy and it is important to know when to get a new one! Do you know when to replace your toothbrush? This blog will review some of the main times to replace your toothbrush and why it is important to do so.

The Short Answer – Every Three months

The American Dental Association recommends replacement of your toothbrush every three to four months when brushing the recommended two times per day – sooner if it becomes frayed. Over time the bristles become worn, misshaped, or bent and no longer clean as effectively. Worn toothbrushes can no longer reach the small crevices to effectively remove bacteria.

Signs to Replace Your Toothbrush Sooner

1. You have Recently been sick – Your toothbrush holds onto the bacteria and viruses that make you sick. Once you start to feel better it is important to replace your toothbrush to prevent reintroduction back into your system.
2. Your toothbrush smells bad – Improper cleaning and drying of your toothbrush can cause bacteria and fungal buildup. This buildup can be introduced into your system. It is important to keep your toothbrush clean and dry when not in use.
3. Your dog or cat finds it – Did you know that pet owners are more likely to have bacteria found in their pet’s mouths in their own? Even though we may love our animals, it is important to keep our oral hygiene products put away from our animal’s reach.
4. Frayed, Bent, or Splayed – This may be a sign of aggressive toothbrushing. Always remember to use gentle strokes and let the toothbrush do the work.
5. Color indicator – Many larger toothbrush manufacturers have a color indicator to help gauge toothbrush wear. Once it gets to about the halfway mark, it is important to get it replaced.

What about Electric toothbrush heads?

The same recommendations are made for electric toothbrush heads. Most electric toothbrush heads have color indicator reminders to replace them.

10 Tips for Proper Toothbrush Care and Maintenance

1. Before using your toothbrush, make sure to run some hot water to rinse and soften the toothbrush bristles. This not only helps to clean the toothbrush, but also helps to be more gentle on your gums.
2. Make sure to thoroughly rinse your toothbrush off after brushing
3. Dry your toothbrush by shaking it over the sink before storage
4. Store your toothbrush in an area with good air circulation where it can dry properly
5. Keep your toothbrush out of reach from your pets
6. Use gentle pressure when brushing – let the toothbrush do the work. Too much pressure will prematurely wear the toothbrush as well as damage your teeth and gums
7. Brush the full two minutes twice per day
8. Use a brush cover when traveling
9. Replace when indicated
10. Always keep a backup brush on hand

Summary

We hope this blog has helped you know how often you really should replace your toothbrush as well as other tips have helped. Reach out to us at Med City Dental for dental tips. Med City Dental your dentist near you in in Rochester, MN!