We use our toothbrush all of the time to clean out the dirt, decay, and germs that sit in our mouths throughout the day. However, how often do we think about whether or not we need to clean our toothbrush, or maybe even replace it?
Our toothbrushes obviously experience an incredible amount of bacteria and, at times, even illness. They are not designed to last for long periods of time. In fact, the American Dental Association recommends that people replace their toothbrush every 3-4 months, or even more often if the bristles become frayed. Toothbrushes with frayed bristles are much less effective, whether they are manual toothbrushes or electric.
Some toothbrush manufacturers make it easier to remember when it’s time for a replacement by displaying colored ‘wear bars’ that change when the toothbrush is ready to be replaced.
Some of the bacterial micro-organisms that live in our mouth can cause infections if we don’t practice strong oral hygiene. We certainly don’t want to use a dirty, old toothbrush to introduce even more bacteria into our mouths.
If you have any questions about your dental health or if you would like to schedule a free consultation, please contact our team or make an appointment. Our incredible staff will give you the best dental care possible.