How Often Should I Change my Toothbrush

Almost everything we use needs maintenance, repairs, or replacement. Your toothbrush is no different! Our toothbrush is there to keep our teeth clean and help to remove plaque, but when is it time for a change?

WHEN SHOULD I CHANGE MY TOOTHBRUSH?

American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. This can be different for each person. You should be on the lookout for worn or frayed bristles on your toothbrush because brushing with an old toothbrush can damage the teeth and gums. It also won’t clean teeth effectively, which can contribute to tooth decay.

This also depends on how often you brush. Surgeons recommend brushing twice a day, but some must brush more often. If you prefer to brush after each meal or a sugary snack, you may have to change your toothbrush sooner.  

WHEN TO CHANGE YOUR TOOTHBRUSH AFTER STREP THROAT

If you are diagnosed with strep throat, replace your toothbrush 2 to 3 days after starting your antibiotics. By that point you are typically no longer contagious, and a fresh brush means the bacteria living on your old bristles cannot reinfect you while you finish your treatment.

If you use an electric toothbrush, you do not need to replace the whole handle. Swapping the brush head is enough. While you are sick, store your toothbrush away from other household members’ brushes, and remember to never share your toothbrush with anyone, not even a family member. This can spread germs between your mouths.

The same logic applies after a cold, the flu, or a mouth infection. Replacing your toothbrush or brush head once you recover is cheap insurance against reinfecting yourself.

STORING YOUR TOOTHBRUSH

When you finish brushing, it is a good practice to rinse off your toothbrush with tap water to remove any bacteria, debris, or extra toothpaste.

The best way to store your toothbrush is in an upright position, letting it air dry. If kept in a closed container without open air, the moist environment will be a good place for harmful bacteria to grow.

TOOTHBRUSH TYPES

MANUAL TOOTHBRUSH

There is a diverse selection of manual toothbrushes available. They come in different strengths; soft, medium, and hard along with different shapes; curved or straight bristles. Most commercial toothbrushes are made with nylon bristles, which last long and clean very effectively.

Dental professionals recommend soft-bristle toothbrushes because they are not too harsh on the gum line. If you have gum disease it’s also great to use soft bristles, so as not to cause additional damage to the gum line.

ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH

While both manual toothbrushes and electric toothbrushes are well suited for our dental health, an electric toothbrush may be the best option for people with mobility problems. It’s also easier to use for children.

Your Electric toothbrush head must be changed every 3 to 4 months as well. Electric toothbrush heads typically have the same brand and type designed for your electric toothbrush.

This can be pricey, but it is necessary for the toothbrush to clean teeth effectively. If you can, keep a brush head or two at home so you can change it when it’s time.

A VISIT WITH US

We really hope this article helped you understand how to use your toothbrush properly and especially how often you should change it for better oral health.

If despite your best efforts your oral health still needs attention, our dental professionals here at Bay Area OSM are happy to examine you. Schedule an appointment here today!