Brushing your teeth is an essential part of your oral health. From a young age you’re taught how to brush your teeth and to do it twice a day. Just as it’s important to brush your teeth twice a day, it’s just as important to ensure you are changing your toothbrush or toothbrush head every 3 months (or sooner). There are multiple benefits to changing your toothbrush!
Reasons To Change Your Toothbrush
- Your toothbrush moves plaque and bacteria from your teeth. After you brush your teeth, that bacteria and plaque are now making a home on your toothbrush. This is similar to dirt being transferred to a sponge or a cloth after you finish cleaning. The longer you keep a toothbrush, the more bacteria it will have on it.
- If you’ve recently overcome a cold, flu, or a viral infection, you should consider changing your toothbrush. Viruses and bacteria can remain in your toothbrush bristles, leading to infect any toothbrushes around it or reinfecting yourself. To ensure the safest option for you and your family, discard your toothbrush after sickness and replace it with a fresh one.
- After some time the bristles on your toothbrush will start to become worn out. A worn out brush usually has more abrasive bristles that are harsh on your gums. This leads to premature gum recession and inflammation in your gums. This usually happens to toothbrushes around 3 months of use, but if you notice toothbrush bristles pointing in the wrong direction before 3 months, it’s time for a change!
How To Keep Your Toothbrush Clean
The best way to keep your toothbrush clean in between changing periods is to rinse it well after use and let it air dry. We do not recommend storing your toothbrush in a small enclosed space as this allows for bacteria to grow. If you store your toothbrush in a cup or a holder, avoid letting it touch other toothbrushes, this transfers bacteria.
Your Dentist Has Got You Covered
At the end of most dentist visits, you will receive a new toothbrush! If you’re going to the dentist every six months you only have to buy one toothbrush in between. Be sure to visit Lowry Main Street Dental for your routine cleaning and a complimentary toothbrush!