How Often Should I Change My Toothbrush?

When most people think about their oral hygiene, the first thing that comes to mind is brushing their teeth. And rightfully so—the habit is the key to maintaining a bright and white smile! However, the act of brushing isn’t all that’s important; your actual toothbrush is of great consequence, too. And many oral health issues don’t originate from lack of oral care, but rather, lack of a proper toothbrush! Here’s more from your dentist in Columbus about how often you should replace your toothbrush and why it matters.

How Frequently Should I Replace My Toothbrush?

Few things in this world last forever, including toothbrushes! According to the American Dental Association (ADA), one of the most trusted of all professional dental organizations, you should change your toothbrush every three to four months. Since toothbrushes are used on a daily basis, the bristles are constantly being worn out and becoming frayed. Sometimes this wear-and-tear is easily visible, but other times it happens gradually and isn’t apparent. Even if your brush doesn’t seem too worn, it still needs to be replaced after a few months. You should also replace your toothbrush if you’ve recently been sick, as the germs can easily be retransmitted from your bristles to you!  

3 Reasons to Regularly Swap Out Your Toothbrush

Simply put, an older toothbrush won’t clean your smile as effectively as a new one! Here are three reasons why you should swap out your brush when it’s the right time:

• Worn, frayed, and splayed bristles won’t clean your teeth well; in fact, they might even contribute to worn enamel and receding gums! Bristle flaring typically starts after around 40 days of consistently using the brush.
• Bacteria can easily accumulate on an older toothbrush’s bristles, greatly increasing the risk of health issues.
• Wielding a brush with worn bristles might encourage you to overbrush, which can harm your teeth and gums and exacerbate certain oral issues.

What Kind of Toothbrush Should I Replace My Old One With?

The type of toothbrush that you choose can make a profoundly positive impact on your oral health! However, with so many available options, it can be challenging to pick the correct one. Here are some tips to keep in mind whenever you find yourself browsing the personal care aisle at the store:

• Toothbrushes with soft-bristles are ideal—these are made with your enamel and gums in mind and are gentle on your smile. Pick one with the ADA Seal of Acceptance if you can.
• Electric toothbrushes are viable options, too. In fact, they’ve been proven to clean more effectively than their manual counterparts—and they’re easier to operate!
• Consult with your dentist for additional suggestions or recommendations; often, you’ll receive a complementary soft-bristled brush at the end of every preventive dental visit.

Brushing your teeth every single day is paramount in the ongoing fight against tooth decay and cavities—but it’s all for nothing if you aren’t using the proper brush! That said, replacing your toothbrush as needed with an appropriate substitute will ensure that your pearly whites look dazzling for the foreseeable future!

About the Practice

The team at Third Street Dental is honored to serve patients and families in the Columbus, OH area under the leadership of three skilled specialists: Dr. Hamza, Dr. Patel, and Dr. Buck. Their practice is pleased to offer a wide range of services including preventive, cosmetic, and restorative options. If you have any questions about the article or would like to arrange a visit, please contact the practice online or over the phone for assistance: (614) 228-4850.