Using a manual or electric toothbrush is necessary in order to achieve optimal oral health, but if it’s too old, it won’t do you much good. Do you remember when the last time was that you got a new toothbrush? Many people don’t know the proper length of time you should use one until replacing it. Continue reading to learn more from your dentist about the best time to change your toothbrush and what you can do to make it last longer.
When Should You Change a Manual Toothbrush?
If you use a manual toothbrush to clean your teeth, you should be replacing it approximately every three to four months according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). When you have a toothbrush for this amount of time, the bristles will begin to fray and will not be as effective at removing plaque from your teeth. If you have more food particles, plaque, and bacteria left behind, you could encounter issues like tooth decay and gingivitis in the near future. If someone else in your household is sick, it would be a good idea to get a new toothbrush in order to help prevent the spread of germs.
When Should You Replace the Head of Your Electric Toothbrush?
About every 12 weeks, you should replace the head of your electric toothbrush. The reason why this should be done more often as compared to a manual toothbrush is because electric ones tend to have shorter bristles. Because of this, they tend to become frayed more quickly and need to be replaced. You may even want to switch out the head sooner than that if you notice that the bristles aren’t looking like they’re in the best shape.
How Can You Make Your Toothbrush Last Longer?
In order to make your toothbrush last as long as possible, take the following steps:
- Don’t store your toothbrush in a place where it could make contact with the head of another toothbrush. This is an easy way to spread germs across a household.
- Rinse your toothbrush after each time you brush your teeth.
- Don’t keep your toothbrush in a closed container because this is the perfect environment for bacteria and mold to accumulate and grow.
- Never share a toothbrush with another person, even if you are very close.
- Don’t use soap, disinfectants, or mouthwash to clean your toothbrush.
For maintaining the best oral health possible, it is crucial that you are using all of the right dental tools. An old, frayed toothbrush is not one of them. Be sure that you are replacing your toothbrush when needed and attending regular cleanings are checkups so you can maintain a beautiful, healthy smile.
About the Practice
At NeoSmile Dental Care, you have two well experienced dentists providing quality care to patients in the Spring House area. Dr. Amy E. Farrell earned her doctorate from the University of Maryland Dental School and has been working in the field for nearly a decade. Dr. Krunal Patel earned his initial dental degree in India before moving to the United States and pursuing his doctorate from New York University College of Dentistry. They are both members of the American Dental Association and other professional organizations. For more information on proper oral hygiene or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (215) 643-5220.
