Do You Need a New Toothbrush?

Even if you are doing everything right, there could still be a problem with your oral hygiene. If you’re wondering what might be lacking in your oral health routine, ask yourself, “Do I need a new toothbrush?”

Many people who take great care of their teeth forget that they have to buy a new toothbrush every once in a while or it will wear out. This may leave you wondering how often you really need to replace your toothbrush.

Don’t worry. We have everything you need to know about when a toothbrush wears out and when you need to replace it. 

How Often Do You Need a New One?

You need to replace a manual toothbrush every 12 weeks or so, according to the American Dental Association. If you use an electric toothbrush, you should replace the head every one to three months and the base every one to three years or when it stops working. 

Why Replace it Every 3 Months?

The reason that you have to replace a toothbrush (or toothbrush head) every three months or so is that when the bristles become worn out they are less effective and can even damage your teeth.

When the bristles on your toothbrush get worn out, they start to bend. This makes them far less effective at keeping your teeth and gums clean. This is especially true of the tight areas where plaque and bacteria like to hide the most. This can lead to cavities, tooth loss, or even dental emergencies. 

A good toothbrush comes with rounded bristles. This is so that it is not abrasive and does not  scratch the enamel on your teeth. When the bristles start to fail, the tips get worn down and become flat. This will cause them to damage your enamel and gums every time that you brush.

How Do You Know When to Replace Your Toothbrush?

The easiest way to know when it is time to replace your toothbrush is to just do it on schedule every three months. Leave a note in your daily planner or a reminder on your phone if you have trouble remembering. 

If you aren’t sure if you need a new toothbrush, you should probably choose the “it’s better safe than sorry” option and go ahead and buy a new one. 

Signs that your toothbrush needs to be replaced are damaged or missing bristles, bent or misshapen bristles, an uncomfortable handle, or any fading of colors on your toothbrush bristles. 

Other Times You Should Replace Your Toothbrush

If there is any kind of smell to your toothbrush, you should replace it immediately. An odor likely indicates that bacteria or fungus is growing on the bristles. This can not only do damage to your oral health but it can make you downright sick. 

Any time you have been sick it is also a good idea to get a new toothbrush. Since it can retain germs it is best to get a new one to avoid the possibility that you could reinfect yourself by using it. 

Ask Your Beverly Hills Dentist

If you have questions about which toothbrush is right for you or how to care for it, be sure to ask your local dentist at your next appointment.

If you need to schedule an appointment with a local dentist, visit The Dental Group of Beverly Hills online or call to schedule an appointment today.