How Often Should You Replace Your Toothbrush?

What is the main tool that is used for daily teeth cleaning? "Toothbrush," is it?  It is a dental hygiene instrument. Brushing is an inevitable part of the daily routine in our life; experts suggest that brushing twice a day is vital to compact germs and bacteria inside the mouth. But do you know how often you should replace your toothbrush? Let's have a look.

Dentists recommend switching out an old brush with a new one every 3 - 4 months, but many of us neglect to change toothbrushes. If you don't replace toothbrushes, it can affect your dental health and spread infections. 

Your toothbrush serves as a vital tool in preventing cavities and decay. A toothbrush can't last forever. After frequent use, the bristles began to fray. A toothbrush with straight bristles will do the best job. 

We commonly use manual toothbrushes, whereas electric toothbrushes need charging. Due to the rotative movement of bristles, it's easy to clean between the gum lines.

Toothbrush Replacement Signs

• Research shows that the frayed bristles can't remove plaques and other food debris from your teeth. And also, over brushing will damage your tooth enamel.
• When you are sick, your toothbrush comes in contact with all of the bacteria and germs in your mouth. It is always good to replace your brush with a new one to avoid germs once you are back to good health.
• When on trips, people always use containers to store toothbrushes. It is harmful because the closed containers create a warm environment so that the bacteria can thrive on your toothbrush. So, it is better to change your toothbrush after a trip.
• Sharing a toothbrush with others can cause infections, whether they have bacterial or viral infections. 

How to Care for Your Toothbrush? 

It is necessary to rinse the toothbrush under steam water after every use, store the toothbrush in an upright position, and air dry to prevent bacterial growth. Always store your toothbrush separate from other people's toothbrushes to avoid cross-contamination of germs.

What Happens if You Don't Change the Toothbrush? 

The bacteria and fungus will accumulate on the toothbrush bristles and will lead to damage of gums, gingivitis, and other oral diseases. 

If gingivitis is left untreated, it will lead to severe infections and cause the teeth to fall out. 

Toothbrushes are inexpensive, but if not taken care of, they can cost you a lot. Enter the date of toothbrush purchase in the calendar, so you can remember the next purchase time. Through brushing, most of the germs and bacteria are washed out. Most oral diseases can be reduced by brushing the teeth twice a day. Maintain dental hygiene regularly and prevent oral diseases.

Want to know more about the replacement of toothbrushes and proper maintenance of oral hygiene? Call us at (503) 5744000 or schedule an appointment with us online to have a consultation with the dentist at S Dental 12017 SW 70th Ave, Tigard, OR 97223.