While most people know to brush their teeth twice a day, few know how often they should change their toothbrushes. Manufacturers recommend you replace your toothbrush every 12 to 16 weeks; however, different types of toothbrushes have varying lifespans. Allow our team at The Little Green Building, Toronto’s trusted emergency dental clinic, to answer the big question: How often should you change your toothbrush?
Brushing Your Teeth
Like most dentists, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day in two-minute increments. If you want to take your oral hygiene a step further, you can also brush your teeth after meals or sweet snacks. We recommend using a soft-bristle brush, as it’s most effective at removing food particles, plaque, and bacteria on the teeth.
So, how often should you change your toothbrush? That depends on the type of toothbrush you use.
Manual Toothbrush
We suggest using a manual toothbrush with soft bristles, a small brush head, and a comfortable handle. They last a bit longer than electric toothbrush heads and should get replaced after three or four months. You may need to replace your toothbrush earlier if you notice signs of wear.
Electric Toothbrush
There are various electric toothbrushes on the market, all offering different features. We recommend using an electric toothbrush that is an appropriate size for your mouth, uses soft bristles, and has oscillating motion. Since electric toothbrushes use shorter bristles, they tend to wear out sooner than manual options and should get replaced every three months or less.
Signs of Toothbrush Wear
- Loose or missing bristles
- Bent and flattened bristles
- Frayed bristles
- Loss of firmness
Other Reasons to Replace Your Toothbrush
There are other reasons you may want to consider replacing your toothbrush. Illness is the most obvious. If you or someone in your family gets sick, especially with a viral or bacterial infection, you should replace all of the toothbrushes in the house.
A child’s toothbrush should also get replaced more often, as they tend to chew on the brush head and damage the bristles. They’re also more likely to touch the bristles to other surfaces, allowing bacteria to build up.
Tips To Maintain Your Toothbrush
If you properly maintain your toothbrush, it can remain in great condition for longer. To do so, we suggest following these tips:
- Always rinse your toothbrush after use
- Don’t share your toothbrush
- Don’t keep your toothbrush in a case or holder, as they provide an optimal environment for bacteria growth
- Prevent your toothbrush head from touching someone else’s
- Don’t clean your toothbrush with soap, mouthwash, or any kind of disinfectant
Need Help Choosing Between Electric and Manual Toothbrushes?
Now that you know how often should you change your toothbrush, you may be considering switching to an electric toothbrush. Call The Little Green Building now at (647) 953-4945 to learn more about electronic vs. manual toothbrushes.
