How Often Should I Replace My Toothbrush?
I want you to think for a minute…when was the last time you replaced your toothbrush? We throw out expired foods and replace old or used up cosmetic products, but when it comes to our dental hygiene, it seems to get forgotten and ends up not making it on the grocery list.
We are going to go over when you should be changing your toothbrush, what happens if you don’t change it often enough, and what to consider when shopping for dental products.
When Should I Change My Toothbrush?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends changing your toothbrush every 3 months. Overtime, toothbrushes go through normal wear and tear and become less effective in removing plaque from your teeth and gums. Studies found that around the 3-month mark is when the bristles on your toothbrush break down and aren’t effective anymore.
Another thing to consider is germs. I know we don’t like to think about it, but germs can hide and build up in your toothbrush bristles. So if you get sick, it is super important to remember to change out your toothbrush once you are over the sickness, so you don’t risk a possible reinfection.
Another issue with not replacing your toothbrush is fungus and bacteria build up. After you use your toothbrush, make sure to rinse off and dry your toothbrush thoroughly, and store it uncovered in an upright position. Make sure to also keep it away from other used toothbrushes! When you are traveling you should also cover your toothbrush head for protection and to reduce the spread of germs.
What Happens If I Don’t Change My Toothbrush Often Enough?
If knowing that bacteria and fungus builds up on your toothbrush over time isn’t enough of a reason for you to replace your toothbrush more frequently, there are also a number of other risk factors involved in not replacing your toothbrush.
One risk includes damaging your gums as your toothbrush becomes old and ineffective in removing plaque, which can lead to gingivitis. Left untreated, gingivitis leads to an infection, which ultimately can lead to teeth falling out.
Even more of an unpleasant side effect from not changing your toothbrush is you can get sick from overused toothbrushes. Your toothbrush can grow mold or build up unwanted particles if you store it near a toilet.
Anyone running to the store to change their toothbrush yet?
What To Consider When Shopping for Dental Products
Ask your dentist during your next dental checkup for recommendations about what you should be buying based off your individual teeth needs. Some common suggestions are to look for a toothbrush with soft bristles because hard bristles damage your gums and teeth. Another suggestion is to choose a toothbrush head size that only touches one to two teeth at a time, use toothpaste containing fluoride, consider using mouthwash and most importantly, don’t forget to floss!
Electric toothbrushes are also the best route to go when purchasing a toothbrush. They have been proven to improve oral health way beyond what a normal toothbrush can do. They haver also been shown to minimize the amount of plaque on teeth of people with periodontal disease.
Book your dental checkup and cleaning today and ask your dentist what dental products will work best for you and your mouth. Call today! 215-372-8332
