Replacing Your Toothbrush: When and How Often to Do So

Saying goodbye is never easy – especially to your favorite toothbrush. After all, it’s been with you for a while. However, if you want your dental hygiene to stay in check, replacing your toothbrush frequently is a must.

Let’s see when and how to know when to do so.

When to Replace It

1. Wear and Tear

The ideal sign that tells you to replace your toothbrush is when it starts wearing out. When you see its bristles withering away, it’s about time you get a new one. It’s also advised that a toothbrush should be replaced every three to four months.

2. Illness

When either yourself or someone in the family has experienced an illness recently, it’s time to say bye-bye to your existing toothbrush. You’ve been using it during the time you were sick, so you’ve given it your germs and bacteria. When you recover, it isn’t sanitary to use that same toothbrush containing your bacteria.

How to Know When to Replace It

1. Unstraightened Bristles

You need to look out for the warning signs that tell you when to toss your existing toothbrush and get a new one. Signs such as the bristles not being straight and stiff anymore. In that case, the toothbrush won’t be able to work properly anyway, as it’ll be difficult for it to clean your teeth since the unstraightened bristles won’t be able to reach the residue.

2. Cleanliness

Another thing to notice is if there’s toothpaste residue stuck between the bristles. If so, then your toothbrush has been compromised of its cleanliness. The main purpose of brushing our teeth is good dental hygiene, and using an unclean toothbrush rids that purpose.

If you wish to have more information on such topics, visit Meadows Family Dentistry in Castle Rock, Colorado, and meet with Dr. Preston Polson to get started on your dental hygiene.