As you might already know that toothbrushes don’t last forever. We often get asked, “How often should you replace your toothbrush?” As per the guidelines of manufacturers and dentist recommendations, you should change your brush every 12-16 weeks. But there are some cases when you may need to replace your brush before this period.
What if I don’t replace my toothbrush when I should?
Your dental health may get negatively affected if you don’t change your toothbrush when you should. Read along to find out when and why you need to replace your brush as advised by dentists.
Why is a soft and straight bristled toothbrush necessary?
Your toothbrush is the tool to prevent tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease. A soft and straight bristled brush better navigates the small spaces in your mouth and helps you get rid of food debris and bacteria stuck between your teeth. It is important to note that you should avoid using a hard brush. This is because it can likely damage soft tissues and gums. But if your brush is worn out, it’s time to replace it!
How often should you change your toothbrush?
The Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) recommends that you should change your toothbrush every 3-4 months or before if it is worn out. Suppose you brush your teeth twice a day for 2 minutes (according to the standard recommendation). In that case, your brush will likely be worn out within 3 months. Additionally, it is advisable to brush your teeth right after a sugary snack for a proactive step to prevent cavities. If you follow these oral hygiene tips, the bristles of your brush will eventually be worn out. Thus, that will be the right time to replace it.
How to know when it’s time to replace your toothbrush?
As a general rule, if your brush has lost its freshness, it is time to replace it!
Most of the time, you can tell that your toothbrush needs replacement just by looking at it. If not, here is how to identify if your toothbrush is worn out.
- Notice the condition of the bristles
- Identify if the bristles look rigid and don’t bounce back to their original position
- When the bristles are no longer straight and stiff
- When the brush have toothpaste residue at the base of its bristles
If this is the condition of your toothbrush, then it has likely lost its efficiency. Moreover, always rinse your toothbrush properly after using it. If you don’t, bacteria can get trapped in it, which can make you sick.
How to care for your toothbrush?
Your brush is not only a tool to prevent oral health issues, but it’s also your personal grooming tool. Follow these tips to take good care of your toothbrush.
- avoid sharing your brush with others
- rinse your brush with tap water right after using it
- the head of your brush shouldn’t come in contact with your brushes
- never sanitize your toothbrush
Takeaway
Your toothbrush is the first line of defense against oral health issues. So it is important to take good care of your brush to make the most out of its lifespan. You should change your brush after every 3-4 months or before it is worn out. You can mark your calendar when you buy a new one to remember when to replace your brush.
For more information, please feel free to contact Houston’s Family Dentistry.
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