Is it time to replace your toothbrush?

Do you change your toothbrush every three months? According to the American Dental Association, this is how often you should be replacing your toothbrush.

There are several reasons you should change out your toothbrush on a regular basis.

1. Bacteria builds up on the bristles when used for a long period of time.
2. Brushes lose their effectiveness when used past their lifetime.
3. Frayed bristles fail to clean your teeth properly.
4. Keeping your toothbrush for too long can lead to sickness.

Out with the old, in with the new

Another sign to throw away your toothbrush is after you’ve been sick, or when you notice it’s worn.

Disposing of your old toothbrush and using a new one comes with a variety of benefits to your oral health and overall health. For instance, new bristles are more efficient at cleaning your teeth and being gentle on your gums. In addition, you won’t be exposing yourself to old bacteria on a brand-new toothbrush.

While it may be challenging to remember when your three months are up, we have a few tips that can help!

3 tips to help you remember that it’s time to replace your toothbrush

1. The first and easiest way to remember is by replacing your toothbrush at the start of each season—Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
2. Second, you can mark your toothbrush with a permanent marker with the date you started using it, or by listing the replacement date.
3. Another easy way to be sure you won’t forget is by setting a reminder on your calendar.

Consult with your dentist at your next appointment

As a bonus, if you visit your dentist twice a year like normal, you’ll receive a toothbrush during each visit. This not only saves you money but also serves as a reminder to replace your current toothbrush. Ask your dentist what type of toothbrush they recommend for you at your next routine dental checkup. Schedule a consultation with our team of expert dentists at Reflection Ridge Dental.