Your toothbrush may be your most important weapon against tooth decay and gum disease, but this tool will not last forever. Thankfully, there are a few easy ways to tell if your toothbrush is ready to be replaced so you can continue cleaning your teeth effectively. Here’s a brief guide to why it’s necessary to replace your brush regularly, how to tell if it’s time to get a new one, and what you should know when selecting a new oral hygiene appliance.
Why Do I Need to Replace My Toothbrush?
Most dentists recommend replacing your toothbrush every three months. The stress of repeated use can cause the bristles to fray, which can reduce their ability to effectively clear plaque and food debris from your teeth. Toothbrushes also frequently develop accumulations of bacteria and food debris after many hygiene sessions. It’s best to throw out and replace your toothbrush after using it while ill or if anyone else uses it, as continuing to brush with it may increase your likelihood of developing new infections.
What Should I Know When Choosing a New Toothbrush?
There are a wide variety of toothbrushes available at pharmacies and grocery stores, and they are not all created equal. A few factors to consider when shopping for a new brush include:
- The texture of the bristles: Hard-bristled brushes can irritate your gum tissue and cause it to recede while also leaving small scratches on your dental enamel. It’s best to use a soft-bristled brush so your teeth can be cleaned gently.
- Electric vs. manual: Dentists recommend using an electric toothbrush to achieve the best possible clean, and these devices can be especially excellent for people with issues that can make brushing difficult such as arthritis. However, manual toothbrushes can still clean your teeth effectively, and they can be a great option if you are travelling and find that you left your preferred brush at home.
Using the same toothbrush for too long can make it difficult to clean your mouth properly and leave you vulnerable to nasty oral infections. By replacing your brush every three months or as needed, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy and comfortable so you can smile beautifully for many years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Dena earned his dental degree at the USC School of Dentistry where he graduated in the top 1% of his class. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association and the San Diego County Dental Society. His office in Encinitas offers general, preventative, and cosmetic dentistry. To learn more about how you can choose the best toothbrush for your oral health, contact his office online or dial (760) 943-7788.