One of the most asked questions for our hygienists is “how often should I change my toothbrush?” We are thrilled this is being asked. It’s a lot more important than you might realize. You might only think to change it out when the bristles are laying sideways, but there are some other telltale signs your toothbrush head has had a good run.
Why Change Out Your Toothbrush?
Understanding the underlying reasons behind the need to replace toothbrushes can provide additional motivation to remember when it’s time for a change.
As toothbrushes age, their effectiveness diminishes, primarily due to the breakdown of bristles on the brush head. With regular use, these old toothbrush bristles wear down, lose their shape, and may begin to change direction, resulting in an uneven and less thorough cleaning experience.
Aside from reduced efficacy, toothbrushes also accumulate germs, fungi, and bacteria over time, which can compromise oral hygiene. To combat this buildup, it’s essential to regularly disinfect toothbrushes using methods such as soaking them in mouthwash or hydrogen peroxide. By understanding both the functional and hygienic aspects of toothbrush maintenance, individuals can prioritize timely replacements for optimal oral health.
When to Change Your Toothbrush
If you can’t remember the last time that you changed out your toothbrush, it’s probably time to switch it out. The American Dental Association recommends that you change out your toothbrush/toothbrush head every three to four months and when your bristles are frayed or visibly matted. Put a note on your calendar or your bathroom cabinet.
It’s advisable to replace your toothbrush after recovering from an illness to prevent the spread of germs. However, if you’ve recently purchased the toothbrush and prefer not to replace it, you can disinfect it instead. Simply soak the toothbrush in a disinfectant solution for 3 to 5 minutes, ensuring to rinse it thoroughly afterward. Avoid prolonged soaking to prevent damage to the bristles.
Toothbrush Choices
With numerous toothbrush options available, electric toothbrushes are recommended for their enhanced brushing power. Their interchangeable heads offer convenience and efficiency. Nevertheless, manual toothbrushes remain a viable choice, especially those with soft bristles, as they effectively clean teeth without risking enamel damage.
If you’d like to go green, choose a recyclable toothbrush!
Toothbrush Storage
You probably have a special place for your toothbrush already. The placement might not seem like a big deal, but the environment it’s in can play a big role in its preservation and your health. Consider placing your toothbrush…
- Away from the toilet. It’s no surprise that the toilet is the most germ filled place in the bathroom, especially when it’s flushed (make sure that lid is closed)!
- Not in a closed container. Since your toothbrush is spending a lot of time getting wet, it will need to dry out. It cannot dry out in a closed space. If it says damp, it will run the risk of bacteria and mold growth.
- Out in the open. For reasons we mentioned above, you will want to let your toothbrush dry in an open space with air flow in an upright position. Avoid putting it in a medicine cabinet.
Final Thoughts on When to Change My Toothbrush
We hope you’ve learned something useful today and can add it to upgrade your hygiene practices! These little tips can make a big impact on our health and wellbeing. Our goal is for you to have the best oral and overall health possible.
At Miami Valley Smiles in Mason, Ohio, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. If it’s been a while since your last dental check-up, or if you’re due for a cleaning, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us. Your oral health is our top priority, and we’re here to provide you with the best care possible. For more information or to book an appointment, contact us directly.
