How Often Do I Need a New Toothbrush?

Most of us know how important brushing our teeth twice a day is if we want to maintain our oral hygiene. However, in order to get the most out of your brushing session, you must also change your toothbrush periodically. Dr. Raymond Hsu from Wellness Centered Dentistry in Redmond, Washington, also recommends changing your toothbrush often. 

Keep reading to learn more about how often you need to replace your toothbrush with a new one.

• Replacing Your Toothbrush 

When you have used your toothbrush for a while, the bristles get splayed or change shape. This is an indicator to replace your toothbrush immediately to avoid pain and irritation while brushing.

Since your brush is the first thing that comes into contact with disease-causing bacteria, it accumulates germs. Sticking to a germ-infested brush for a long time will only aggravate your dental problems.

If you use an electric toothbrush, it tends to wear out faster. This happens due to it having shorter bristles and the extra pressure from the vibrations. You should use it only for a maximum of 12 weeks before you replace it with a new one.

• Replacing Your Toothbrush Under Special Circumstances

If anyone in the family is sick, replace their toothbrush immediately, as well as the other toothbrushes that were kept nearby. This is because viruses and bacteria can survive for up to three days on a toothbrush and can spread from one person to the other.

•  How to Maintain Your Toothbrush for Longer

Unlike other grooming tools, your toothbrush has closer contact with the inside of your mouth. This is why it needs more care and maintenance. Here are some ways to maintain your toothbrush for longer:

• After using your toothbrush, rinse it thoroughly with water and let it dry by keeping it in an upright position.
• Don’t use mouthwash, soap, or sanitizer to clean your toothbrush.
• Store your toothbrush away from those of other family members.
• Keep your toothbrush far away from the toilet. This is to protect it from the fine particles that may spray out during flushing.
• Never share a toothbrush with anyone. If two brushes get mixed up, throw them away right away.

To get more insights on practicing good oral hygiene habits, you can contact our experts at Wellness Centered Dentistry at (425) 882-1354. You can also visit us at 16150 NE 85th St # 115, Redmond, Washington 98052.