Brushing your teeth has likely become a habit ingrained in you since childhood. Now it’s something you do first thing in the morning and right before bed. Since you do it twice daily, it’s important that your toothbrush stays in great shape. However, when exactly are you supposed to get a new one? You might wait until it’s completely frayed, but that can be trouble for your oral health. Here’s when it’s time to swap out to a fresh one.
So, When Should I Get a New Toothbrush?
To make a long story short, you should replace your toothbrush every three to four months. If you are an especially aggressive brusher, then you may need to do it sooner. It’s basically that every time the season changes, you should update your oral hygiene routine. This also goes for electric toothbrush heads!
But Why Is Swapping My Toothbrush Important?
Unlike wine, cheese, and jeans that get better with age, the bristles on your toothbrush don’t. In fact, they start to lose their stiffness and effectiveness the longer you use them. Over time, they won’t be able to scrub off harmful plaque as much as they did before.
Not only that, but they can harbor germs if you are sick. The virus can stick to them and reinfect you after you recover. So, you should get a new one once you are feeling better. It’s also not a good idea to share the same dental tool with someone else; this can expose you to their germs.
How Does Not Swapping Out My Toothbrush Affect My Oral Health?
As you might be able to guess, when you can’t remove all the bacteria in your mouth, a couple of problems may arise. You increase your risk of cavities, gum disease, and persistent bad breath as they linger. That’s because the bristles can’t get into the crevices they used to!
Simply put, don’t forget to swap out your toothbrush! It’s an easy and cost-effective way to safeguard your smile from any trouble. Since there are months in between, you can help yourself remember by setting a reminder on your calendar or changing it with the seasons. That way, you keep your oral health in great shape.
About the Practice
Dr. Donna Kiesel earned her dental degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry. She has over 30 years of experience that she uses to give the Coppell community the high-quality care they deserve. Dr. Kiesel works to protect your grin from any trouble through semi-annual checkups and cleanings. If anything is worrying, she’s here to help get your teeth and gums back to being strong. Are you due for your next dental visit? Schedule an appointment or call our office at (972)420-4488.