Do you remember the last time you replaced your toothbrush? Dental hygiene doesn’t get nearly as much attention when it comes to tools for dental care. We remember to throw away old makeup sponges, but toothbrushes are just as important to replace.
So, when does that line start and what determines if a toothbrush is still usable?
Most dentists recommend changing your toothbrush every 3 months. If you see that the bristles on your toothbrush are breaking down, it might be time to switch it out. As bristles break down, they become less effective at removing plaque.
Germs can also build up in your toothbrush, so make sure to change it after you recover from a sickness. To reduce the spread of germs onto your toothbrush, keep the head covered when traveling. Make sure to rinse it and dry it properly too.
If you don’t change your toothbrush, you run the risk of it accumulating fungi and bacteria that may infect your gums, leading to gingivitis. The toothbrush can also grow mold, and you can get sick from using an overused toothbrush.
So, if you don’t remember when you last changed your toothbrush, this is your chance to throw it out and get a new one. We also recommend considering an electric toothbrush and to personalize your dental hygiene tools to your teeth needs. Talk to your dentist to figure out what works best for you.
Need dental advice? Huntington Smiles is here to help. Check out our website to learn more about our services.
