23 Aug How Often Should I Replace My Toothbrush?
When was the last time you replaced your toothbrush? If it was over three months ago, it’s time for a new one. Your oral hygiene depends heavily on the quality of your toothbrush. When toothbrush bristles get worn out, they aren’t as effective at removing plaque and tartar buildup.
If you want fewer cavities and a clean bill of health when you visit the dentist, you need to replace your toothbrush regularly to get the cleanest mouth possible. As an integrative holistic dental practice, Prescott Dentistry knows that your dental habits at home are just as important as your visits to our office.
Why Do I Need to Replace My Toothbrush Regularly?
Toothbrushes and electric toothbrush heads are not designed to last forever. Over time, the bristles on a toothbrush can fall out, lose their shape, become frayed, and lose their cleaning ability. Worn out toothbrushes will not clean your teeth properly, and they won’t remove plaque along the gum line or debris caught in hard-to-reach areas of your mouth.
Another reason to replace your toothbrush regularly is to avoid getting sick. Toothbrushes can host lots of germs and bacteria that hang out in the bathroom. And, if you share a toothpaste tube with other members of your household, you could be transferring germs back and forth to each other every time the toothpaste tube touches a different brush.
How Do I Know When It’s Time to Replace My Toothbrush?
You should replace your toothbrush every three months, or as soon as the bristles become worn. The bristles on your toothbrush should be strong enough to brush your teeth adequately. Your toothbrush bristles should feel sturdy, not so soft, bent, and frayed that they are no longer springy. If the bristles are splayed or worn out, it’s time to buy a new toothbrush.
Keeping your toothbrush clean and brushing your teeth properly will stop the bristles from wearing down as quickly. If you brush your teeth with gentle pressure instead of brushing aggressively, your bristles will last longer. At the end of every brush, be sure to wash any toothpaste residue from the bristles, as this can build up and harbor germs that could get you sick.
Holistic Dentistry in Prescott, Arizona
Did you know that besides replacing your toothbrush every three months, you should also visit the dentist for regular cleanings and exams every six months? While home dental care is extremely important, only a dentist can spot-potential problems in your mouth and deep clean your teeth to remove tartar buildup. If you want a holistic dental experience, schedule an appointment at Prescott Dentistry today.