How to Tell if Your Toothbrush Needs Replacing

You can get used to using your toothbrush for a long time. However, you still need to replace it after a while. How do you know when your toothbrush needs replacement? What are some of the telltale clues? The information below will give you what you need to know for better brushing and dental health.

When A Toothbrush Needs Replacement

A soft-bristled toothbrush is the ideal toothbrush to use to keep teeth polished and clean, and the gums and teeth free of the effects of abrasion. Soft-bristled brushes need to be replaced more frequently, because they are softer or flexible. Replace your brush if the bristles do not stand up straight or they bend over. Also look at the base of the brush. Do you see debris you cannot remove? If so, you should replace your brush. If your brush is in good shape, but you have been sick, you should replace your toothbrush.

Using your toothbrush again increases the risk that you will also get sick again. If your toothbrush sits next to another person’s toothbrush in your household and the brushes touch, replace both brushes. Bacteria can jump from one brush to the next, so keep your brushes apart.

Also, don’t use a brush that you have placed in a container or drawer, as the bacteria on the brush can grow. Replace your toothbrush if you have placed it in a place where germs can congregate. You have to remember that toothbrushes hold bacteria from our mouths. Therefore, they should be stored in an open space away from other toothbrushes.

The same is true of electric toothbrush heads. In either case, we recommend that you replace your electric toothbrush head or manual toothbrush about every three months under normal use. Doing so will prevent any problems with germs and keep your gums and teeth clean.

You can also improve your dental health with regularly scheduled office visits. Contact use today for an appointment and a cleaning. We can provide you with the professional care you need to support your at-home dental care.