How Often Should You Change Your Toothbrush?
Toothbrushes can wear out quickly and knowing the signs that you need to get a new one is important if you plan to keep your teeth healthy.
Daily brushing and flossing and routine dental checkups and cleanings help ensure that all or most of your teeth are kept safe. But all the brushing just means that you easily wear out the brushes. However, knowing how often to change toothbrushes can differ for each person. Most dental practitioners recommend replacing your toothbrush or toothbrush head every three to four months, according to your brushing habits and your overall health, these recommendations differ.
When should you change your toothbrush?
There are a number reasons to change your toothbrush regularly. The first reason being, the buildup of bacteria on the bristles. Others include illnesses, frayed or matted bristles, and bristles coming loose from the head.
If you have been ill, even with just a head cold, you should throw your toothbrush away. This is especially important if you store your toothbrush near those of other members of your household. Whenever possible, stop spreading viruses and colds back and forth between family members or roommates. When one of them is ill, throwing away toothbrushes that are infected with infectious material is a cheap and simple way to help protect all family members.
When toothbrush bristles become frayed, matted, or curled out at the edges, it is past time for a replacement. A person who brushes vigorously three or four times a day, more often than someone who brushes just once a day and whose toothbrush bristles are still straight, will need to replace the brush due to wear and frayed bristles.
Replace a toothbrush if it has bristles that curl at the edges. These are no longer efficient for plaque removal and should be discarded. No matter how long you brush or what tool you use, a brush with curled bristles will not get your teeth clean.
How often should I change my toothbrush?
Remember, it is not the length of time the brush has been used that is important: it is the condition of the bristles that determines when you should replace the brush. Dental professionals recommend brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time. Using a soft-bristled brush and following these instructions ensures that before requiring replacement, the brush can last three to four months.
However, more regular replacement may be appropriate for those individuals who like to brush more frequently, say three or four times per day, and who prefer to use a lot of pressure with the brush.
Only one part of keeping your teeth safe and avoiding gum disease is brushing your teeth twice a day. You can also brush your teeth everyday, limit sugar drinks and snacks, and regularly see your dentist.
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