Before brushing your teeth again, you should think about the last time you’ve replaced your toothbrush.
When it comes to clothing or shoes, you automatically know when it’s time to replace them. However, what about your toothbrush? Before brushing your teeth again, you should think about the last time you’ve replaced your toothbrush. Do you know when it’s time to throw it in the trash? Keep reading for some factors that will determine how often you should switch out your toothbrush.
When Do You Buy A New Toothbrush?
The rule of thumb is to replace a toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. If you’ve been sick recently, you want to replace your toothbrush even sooner, mainly if it sits next to other toothbrushes in your household. You don’t want to spread germs! If you don’t remember if it’s been 3 to 4 months, then examine the bristles to see if they’re damaged or frayed. Frayed bristles won’t clean your teeth adequately. If young children are in your household, then it’s likely that their toothbrushes will need replacement much quicker than yours. Young children are known for aggressively brushing their teeth and wearing out bristles.
What Type of Toothbrushes Exist?
Toothbrushes can either be manual or electric and come in a variety of “levels” ranging from soft to hard. We typically recommend patients choosing soft or medium bristle designs as these will not be as abrasive to your enamel. Hard bristles will damage your enamel. Once the enamel is gone, you cannot get it back. Electric toothbrushes clean the teeth and gums more efficiently than manual toothbrushes because it can reach crevices and work in motions that a manual toothbrush cannot. Electric brushes are also a great tool for those with manual dexterity issues.
Toothbrush Maintenance
Always rinse your toothbrush after brushing your teeth to remove residue such as saliva, toothpaste, food particles and bacteria. If you store your toothbrush in a stored container, it can cause bacteria to build up. Because you want the bristles to dry thoroughly, it’s best to expose your toothbrush to air. Disposable toothbrushes exist, so when you’re traveling, this is an option versus storing your toothbrush in a closed container.
Bottom Line
Get into the habit of buying you and your family new toothbrushes several times a year. Did you also know that an old toothbrush can lead to bad breath? You certainly want to make sure that you’re doing all you can to have a healthy smile that will make you feel confident.
Come to Smile Designs of Olney for All of Your Cosmetic Procedures
For your smile makeover or any other dental needs, come to Smile Designs of Olney! Book an appointment with us. Whether you want your teeth whitened, straightened, or restored altogether, we pride ourselves in quality patient care and giving you the smile makeover that you deserve. Our small, professional staff will make you feel right at home. We service the Montgomery County regions including Olney, Laytonsville, Brookville, Silver Spring, Rockville, Columbia, Bethesda, Chevy Chase and Germantown, MD. Contact us at (301) 260-0700, visit us online, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Youtube.