How often do you change out your toothbrush? Surprisingly, many dentists recommend that you get a new one every 3 to 4 months – and in certain circumstances you might have to change it out even sooner. It might seem tedious to get a new toothbrush so often, but it’s extremely important if you want to keep your teeth clean and healthy. The information below will give you a clear idea of when you should head to the store to pick up a new brush or brush head.
Why Do Toothbrushes Need to Be Replaced?
You use your toothbrush at least twice every day to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. Naturally, with such regular use, the bristles are slowly but surely going to become worn down. The more frayed the bristles become, the less effective they’ll be at cleaning the enamel. That’s why it’s recommended to change to a new brush every few months or so. Many people find it helpful to get a new toothbrush at the beginning of each season; that way it’s easy to remember.
Do You Ever Need to Replace a Toothbrush Early?
If the bristles on your toothbrush already look like they’re frayed, then you should get a new one no matter how old your current one is. Also, if you use your toothbrush while you’re sick, then you need to get a new one as soon as you’re better. Viruses, germs, and other harmful organisms could be living on the toothbrush head, meaning you risk getting sick again if you continue to use it. (Do not attempt to clean it by putting it in the dishwasher or the microwave, and do not apply any disinfectants.)
Also, if you have young children, it might be a good idea to change out their toothbrushes more often. Children tend to be very hard on toothbrushes, chewing on them and mashing the head. You’ll want to keep an eye on your children to make sure they aren’t putting the brush head on any surface besides their teeth.
What About Electric Toothbrushes?
It would obviously be a bit costly to get a new electric toothbrush every few months, but at the very least you can switch out the head. This actually has to be done relatively often compared since the movement or vibrations of the electric toothbrush will cause the bristles to wear down much faster; it doesn’t help that the bristles are shorter in general. As such, you should be getting a new electric toothbrush head every 12 weeks – or possibly earlier if you already notice signs of damage.
During your next dental checkup, talk to your dentist about your toothbrush habits and make sure that you’re switching out your brush at proper intervals. Your smile deserves the best care, and that means having a good toothbrush at all times.
About the Author
Dr. John E. Petty wants his practice to be a minimum-stress environment for his patients. He always takes the time to listen and fully understand your dental needs, and he always strives to avoid overbooking so that he can see you at your appointment time. If you have questions about your oral hygiene and want to schedule an appointment at his practice, Petty Dental, visit his website or call (931) 454-9499.