Know how often you should replace your toothbrush
Wondering when to replace your toothbrush? Dentists recommend changing it every three to four months or sooner
While using a toothbrush is crucial in order to practice good oral hygiene, many users have not bothered to replace their toothbrushes for months at a time.
The ideal time frame recommended by dental specialists for a standard toothbrush replacement, in order to achieve optimum cleanliness for healthy gums and teeth, is between three to four months.
During the months of use, toothbrush bristles will begin to fray and bend, and will no longer be able to clean the surface and between your teeth properly.
If a toothbrush is excessively used, then it will also apply pressure on the gums in a manner that can cause sensitivity, while leaving more surface uncleaned.
Health care specialists suggest you change your toothbrush once you spot signs of wear on your bristles, or once you have been cured from diseases such as the cold, influenza, and strep throat.
Kids, whose habits while brushing can wear their bristles faster, might need a change of toothbrushes every two to three months.
Those who use electric toothbrushes will, to an extent, be subject to the same time frame. Their toothbrush heads should be changed once they exhibit signs of wear and tear or in between every three to four months.
As far as storage is concerned, dentists suggest you keep your toothbrushes in a standing position in an airy spot where it will be able to dry between usages.
Sharing toothbrushes should never be encouraged since it is an open door for virus and bacteria transmission.
If you do keep your toothbrushes fresh by replacing them periodically, along with a consistent brushing habit of twice a day and visiting the dentist, your oral hygiene will also improve.
