While shopping for a new toothbrush might not be quite as fun as buying a new piece of clothing, it’s an important item that should be replaced quite frequently. The whole point of a toothbrush is to remove bacteria from your teeth and gums, so it’s safe to assume that your toothbrush will harbour some of the bacteria even after being rinsed. Aside from the fact that they collect bacteria over time, there are a number of different reasons why you should replace your toothbrush. We’ve taken the time to outline a few of the major ones!
When It Frays
The general rule of thumb when it comes to replacing toothbrushes is to replace them every 3-4 months. Typically, you’ll be able to tell when your toothbrush is in need of replacement, as it will start to fray. When you think about it, you use your toothbrush multiple times a day, and with that much use, the bristles will begin to wear out. Once you start to see that wear and tear – whether it be a manual toothbrush or an electric toothbrush head, it’s probably time to toss it and replace it with a new one.
After An Illness
If you’ve recently been sick, you’ll likely be actively disinfecting the surfaces of your home to kill any bacteria you may have spread, but many people forget that their toothbrush was also exposed to that illness. It is important to always replace your toothbrush after an illness, otherwise, you may run the risk of becoming sick again. While it may be tempting to try to put your toothbrush through the dishwasher or microwave to try to disinfect it, the best thing to do is simply throw it away and replace it with a new one.
Replace Children’s Toothbrushes More Frequently
When it comes to your child’s toothbrush, replacing them more often may encourage them to take better care of their teeth. Opting for bright, colourful toothbrushes can help make the experience enjoyable and can help get kids excited about brushing their teeth. However, children are more likely to expose their toothbrushes to even more bacteria by brushing it up against other surfaces of the bathroom, such as the counter, sink, and mirror. Because of this, you might be required to replace your child’s toothbrush more frequently to help eliminate any bacteria.
How To Take Care of Your Toothbrush
With proper care, it is possible to extend the lifespan of your toothbrush by looking after it properly. When travelling, it’s always a good idea to store your toothbrush in a protective case to keep it from brushing up against other items in your suitcase that could add bacteria. Also, you never want to share your toothbrush with someone else, even close members of your family. If you happen to store your toothbrushes together in a cup on the bathroom counter, try to make sure that the brush heads never touch each other. Don’t forget to rinse your toothbrush thoroughly with tap water after brushing to keep it clean and free of any toothpaste residue.
While replacing your toothbrush can seem like a hassle, it’s an important part of maintaining good oral health. Sticking to a 3-month replacement routine is a great way to ensure that you’re never using a toothbrush for too long and will help keep your teeth and gums happy and healthy!