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How Often Should You Replace Your Toothbrush?

Even though you have been brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day regularly, you might be surprised to know that your dental hygiene is still being compromised. Why? That’s because you are still using your old, weary toothbrush! Yes, using the same toothbrush for months on end is bad for your teeth.

When to change toothbrush?

Wondering when do you need to buy a new toothbrush? Many dentists suggest that one should change their toothbrush approximately every 3-4 months or sooner if the bristles are frayed, or if you have been sick for a while. And why is that so? Because once the bristles become worn out and frayed, the toothbrush may lose its effectiveness. Various clinical studies have shown that a new toothbrush is more efficient in removing plaque. Thus, ensuring that your brush is doing its best to keep your teeth healthy and clean!

Not replacing your toothbrush at the right time will cause dental problems. The frayed bristles of an old toothbrush do not kill the harmful bacteria in your mouth. Neither does it protect your teeth against decay and plaque. A new toothbrush is gentle on your teeth and gums and can brush out food particles and germs more easily and effectively.

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Apart from the regular change of toothbrush the type of brush used also matters a lot for maintaining your dental hygiene. Most dentists will recommend a soft bristle toothbrush as it is the most comfortable and safest option. Depending on how vigorously you brush, softer bristles are easier on the gums, whereas hard bristle brushes can actually damage the gums, root surface and tooth enamel.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.

Choosing the right toothbrush

Did you know there are two types of toothbrushes? A manual toothbrush and an electric one.

A manual toothbrush is a commonly used variant. It has a simple design and you have complete control over how much pressure it puts on your gums and teeth.

An electric toothbrush, on the other hand, requires charging. Due to the rotating movement of the bristles, it becomes easier for you to clean between your teeth and along the gum line.

Choose whichever feels comfortable and makes you want to brush your teeth twice daily.

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The average person should be swapping out for a new toothbrush every three to four months. This is recommended to ensure that the bristles are still effective and bacteria accumulation on the toothbrush is minimal.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Maintaining your toothbrush

Want to ensure that your toothbrush stays in good shape? The American Dental Association recommends that after brushing your teeth you should rinse the toothbrush under running tap water. How will it help? Water will wash away saliva and traces of toothpaste. Keeping the used toothbrush in a closed container can cause bacteria to build up. You should always position your toothbrush vertically after use so that the bristles can dry.

Also Read: What Causes Receding Gums: Insights and Preventive Measures from Experts

Conclusion

To ensure that your oral health does not suffer, practice dental hygiene regularly and change your toothbrush every three months.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

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