Brushing your teeth regularly is a vital part of dental care. We have been taught to brush our teeth from an early age. While it is important to learn the best techniques for brushing teeth, it is equally important to replace the toothbrush periodically. In this blog post, we explore the importance of changing toothbrushes and how often you need to replace the toothbrush.
Importance of Changing Toothbrush
Before you try to determine how often you need to change your toothbrush, it is important to understand the importance of doing so. Research suggests that a typical used toothbrush has over 10 million bacteria and germs. Just like dirt gets absorbed in a sponge or cloth used for cleaning, bacteria, and germs get transferred to the toothbrush when we brush our teeth. The longer you use a toothbrush, the more bacteria and germs inhabit the toothbrush.
Another reason why you need to replace the toothbrush is worn-out bristles. Over time, all types of toothbrushes are going to get worn out and have abrasive bristles. Your gums can get hurt if you continue using a toothbrush with abrasive bristles.
If you have a viral infection such as a cold or flu, you should consider getting a new toothbrush to prevent spreading infection. While no one should ever share their toothbrush with others, you may be sharing the toothbrush holder, which can spread the infection to other toothbrushes.
How Often to Change Toothbrush
The American Dental Association recommends changing your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months, but this can vary depending on several factors. If you brush with more pressure, you may cause the toothbrush to wear faster, and require a replacement earlier than 3 months. On the other hand, if you use it with less pressure and keep your toothbrush clean, it might last longer.
Some people try to use different cleaning agents to keep the toothbrush clean, however, this can do more harm than good. Washing the toothbrush with extremely hot or boiling water can cause the bristles to warp, resulting in damage to your teeth and gums. You should simply rinse it thoroughly after each use and keep it in a clean and dry area. Storing the toothbrush in a small area promotes the growth of bacteria and germs on the toothbrush.
Replacement Is Not Enough
While replacing the toothbrush on time is important, it is not enough to have good oral health and hygiene. You also need to have regular dental inspections from a skilled and experienced dentist. They can help identify any issues that need to be addressed. In addition, regularly visiting your dentist for cleaning can help keep your teeth in good shape.
You should also pick the right toothbrush for maximum benefits. Some factors to consider when choosing a brush include bristle type, head size, manual vs electric, handle design, and your l dental needs. Individuals who have sensitive teeth or gums might want to stick to toothbrushes with very soft bristles.