It’s easy to evaluate when to change a faded or worn-out toothbrush, but the question is, how often you should change your toothbrush? If you have been using a toothbrush for months, then it’s time to replace it with a new one. Using the same brush or same electric brush head can affect your dental health and spread infections.
Toothbrush manufacturers and dentists advise changing it after 12 to 16 weeks or 3 to 4 months. You must follow these guidelines if you brush 2 minutes 2 twice a day.
Another reason for getting a new toothbrush is that bristles lose their cleaning ability, they fall out, change shape, and become unable to reach tight spots. Worn-out bristles cannot reach areas between the teeth and gums effectively.
Electric toothbrushes clean the teeth by rotating and vibrating the head on the teeth surface. The head has nylon bristles and can wear out after regular use. Moreover, their bristles are shorter, which means they fray more quickly.
So, you must change the head in 12 weeks or even earlier. Watch for the signs of wear and tear on bristles and replace it when necessary.
There can be numerous reasons to replace your toothbrush aside from fraying. If you or your family member contracted viral and bacterial infections like whooping cough and strep throat, then it’s time to change your toothbrush.
Parents should keep a close eye on your child make sure they don’t rub the brush on other surfaces. Because the brush can attract a lot of germs which will consequently reach their throat and insides.
Moreover, you should replace it if you have accidentally dropped the toothbrush on the ground or someone else uses your toothbrush. Then it’s a good time to get a new one.
No, matter what toothbrush you are using, keeping it clean and dry is essential. Thoroughly wash the toothbrush after every use and clean any debris or paste off the brush. Store toothbrushes in an upright position and let them dry in the air. Storing a moist toothbrush in a closed container promotes microbial growth. So, try to keep them exposed in the open air.
Travelling can be bad for your toothbrush as well. Try to use a disposable toothbrush; if not, then dry the bristles of your toothbrush entirely and store it in a separate pack.