When was the last time you took a close look at your toothbrush? If you inspect it and discover that the bristles are flattened, frayed, or discolored, they may not be cleaning your smile as well as you think they are. In fact, dental experts have found that using a toothbrush past its prime can lead to noticeable oral health issues. Here’s when your Mesquite dentist recommends replacing your toothbrush, and what could happen to your smile if you don’t.
Signs It’s Time for A New Toothbrush
While your toothbrush doesn’t have an expiration date like the food in your refrigerator, it does begin to “go bad” over time. The American Dental Association and other dental experts report that you should throw out your toothbrush and use a new one:
- After three to four months of use, or…
- Once the toothbrush bristles have become frayed, or…
- When you’ve recovered from a sickness like a cold or the flu…
Old Toothbrushes & Oral Health Issues
Recent studies have found that it typically takes between three and four months for a toothbrush’s bristles to become frayed. This could happen much sooner for those who brush aggressively. Once the bristles are worn and skewed, they begin to leave behind a considerable amount of plaque even after brushing for two minutes. Additionally, the bent bristles will begin to trap food particles, bacteria, and other debris, then redeposit them back into your mouth the next time you brush. This influx in bacteria and plaque buildup can lead to:
- Bad breath
- Discolored teeth
- Tooth decay
- Infections on the tongue
- Gum disease
Choosing Your Next Toothbrush
When the time comes to replace your toothbrush, you can choose between two styles: manual and electric. Traditional manual toothbrushes are by far the more affordable and widespread option. They’re also easy to travel with and come in a wide variety of styles to suit individual brushing preferences. On the other hand, modern electric toothbrushes may be an excellent choice for those with limited ability. They may also help some people improve their dental routines with built-in timers, sensors, and modes. Whichever toothbrush you choose, be sure to pick a product that has soft bristles and the American Dental Association’s Seal of Approval.
You can’t keep your mouth clean and healthy with an old toothbrush. Invest in a new toothbrush regularly and your smile will thank you for years to come!
About the Author
Dr. Dhavalkumar Rana of TrueCare Dentistry has been providing personalized, high-quality dental care for almost a decade now. While he has advanced training in several topics like dental implants and gum disease, he firmly believes in the power of preventive dentistry and excellent at-home oral hygiene. However, he offers a wide variety of cosmetic services, dental repair treatments, and everything in between to help you achieve and maintain the smile you’ve always wanted. If you have more questions about when to replace your toothbrush, feel free to contact him via his website or at (469) 399-7288.