How often should I replace my toothbrush?

Recall when was the last time you replaced your toothbrush. We can throw out expired food, restock vitamins and supplements, yet when it comes to oral hygiene, we often neglect or do not give as much attention to this area of our health. This is especially so for a simple thing as changing our toothbrush.

When to change your toothbrush

It is recommended by most dentists that your toothbrush should be changed every 3 months. This is because, overtime, toothbrushes go through normal wear and tear, rendering them ineffective in removing plaque from teeth and gums. Research has shown that 3 months are the average lifespan of a toothbrush
before the bristles break down.

However, one key thing we do not consider and probably do not like to think about is that germs can build up in toothbrush bristles. That is why toothbrushes should be replaced after you have had a cold, or else you will risk a possible reinfection. Fungus and bacteria can also develop in the bristles if not taken care of properly. After brushing, make sure you rinse off and dry your toothbrush thoroughly. Store it uncovered in an upright position and keep it away from other used toothbrushes. When travelling, make sure your toothbrush is covered to protect it so that germs do not spread.

As most of us tend to forget exactly how long it has been since we changed our toothbrush, a general rule is to pay particular attention to the condition of your toothbrush head. Check whether the bristles are worn out, fanned out, frayed or if there is a change in colour, signifying the presence of mold.

What will happen if I do not change my toothbrush often

If you are still not convinced that you should change your toothbrush often, there are also other risks and issues that are yet to be mentioned. One such risk is the damage to your gums as old toothbrushes become ineffective in removing plaque from your teeth, leading to gingivitis. Left untreated, gingivitis leads to infection causing teeth to fall out.

In addition, overused toothbrushes can cause you to fall ill due to the accumulation of germs or even worse, due to you ingesting unwanted particles if stored near a toilet.

It is not too late to change your toothbrush now if you have not done so recently! You can also schedule an appointment with us if you feel like you really need a deep cleansing after reading this article.

For booking of an appointment, contact us at 1728 Dental via :

1728 Dental@AMK: +65 9631 1728
1728 Dental @Bedok Central: +65 8764 1728
1728 Dental@Jurong East: +65 9770 1728
1728 Dental@Tampines: +65 9725 1728

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