Our office recommends you remember changing your toothbrush about every three months. Most don’t have any idea how many bacteria live on your toothbrush. Shockingly researchers have found that a single toothbrush can be loaded with as many as 10 million germs and bacteria. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you replace your toothbrush approximately every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. There are some other signs to change it.

When to Get a New Toothbrush

If you have come down with a cold or flu, most people don’t know that after it dissipates, it’s time to replace your toothbrush. The sickness causing bacteria can hang around on your toothbrush only to get you sick again down the road.  Another time to replace it is if the toothbrush is stored close to other toothbrushes.

We all have different bacteria in our mouths. When you touch someone else’s toothbrush, your immune system may not be ready for a new bacteria resulting in sickness. When in doubt, look at the bristles. If they are frayed, they won’t clean teeth well. Because children usually scrub harder than adults, they may need their toothbrushes replaced more often.

Types of Toothbrushes

There are two styles of toothbrushes to consider: manual and electric. Choose the type of a toothbrush that feels most comfortable, and it’s easy for you to stick to your oral routine with.  The regular toothbrush is easily packed and ready to use without fail any time you need it. It doesn’t require a plug in, and you have a better sense of the pressure applied to the teeth. The electronic toothbrush will remove more bacteria faster than the original. It also allows for an easier reach towards your back teeth because of the design and brush tip being half the size of a traditional toothbrush. An electric toothbrush requires charging and a little tougher to travel with and pack away. The cost of the brush heads can also be more expensive to replace.

Regardless of which one you go with. Both need replacing every 90 days or sometimes sooner. The American Dental Association recommends washing the toothbrush under tap water after each brush to wash toothpaste, saliva, and as much bacteria as possible away. Be sure to store your brush vertically so it will dry as quickly as possible. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information regarding your oral care, call us today.