You may have wondered at some point as you stared at a dirty looking toothbrush, “When should I replace this thing?”. Well, our dentist will give you insight into this common question.
Clinical Research
Research has actually been done on toothbrushes and we’ll jump straight to the conclusion: a new toothbrush can remove more plaque compared to a worn out one. So how often should you replace your old toothbrush?
The Answer: every 3 months.
Even if you take good care of your toothbrush – you should still replace it around the 3-month mark because the bristles are probably splayed and not nearly as effective, even if you give your brush a thorough clean.
Look at the bristles. If you see they are bulging to the side instead standing erect and firm, then you should begin considering replacement.
Have you been sick lately? When you recover, replace your toothbrush. The reason is because the harmful bacteria that occurred as a result of the sickness has left its mark on your toothbrush and it’s better to do away with the germs at that point.
If you suffer from periodontal disease, then your dentist has probably recommended a new toothbrush every 4-6 weeks to prevent bacteria from spreading wildly throughout your mouth.
I use an Electric Toothbrush?
Electric toothbrushes are actually preferred by dentists because their oscillating heads are far more efficient than what the human hand can produce. However, is the extra effectiveness worthwhile? Many people have used a manual toothbrush for years and have excellent teeth. Pick your preference.
How often to replace electric toothbrush heads? Every 3-6 months. These heads are designed to last much longer – and if you take care of them, they will last you awhile. However, read your manufacturer’s instruction manual for clarification as the heads may be made differently.
New toothbrush or not, you should always practice excellent oral hygiene by brushing and flossing every day and night, but preferably after every meal for best results!