Do you ever wonder about when it’s the right time to ditch your toothbrush? That is a very normal thought. We use them every day, twice a day to clean our mouths so it makes sense that they need to be replaced at some point in their life span. The American Dental Association says we need to replace our toothbrushes every 3 months. Let’s talk about some key signs that point to you needing to ditch your current toothbrush.
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Check out the bristles.
Take a look at the bristles’ part of your toothbrush. Are they crooked or bent? If the bristles aren’t straight, it’s time to toss it. When your bristles show too much wear and tear, it means it’s time to replace your toothbrush.
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Look even closer.
Check out the bristles even more. Do you see any debris at the bottom of the bristles? If there is debris living in the bottom of the toothbrush bristles then your toothbrush is dirty. At this point, it would need to be replaced.
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Any recent sickness?
If you have been sick recently, you need to replace your toothbrush. This makes total sense, but it is something people often forget to do. This is important to do to avoid reinfection and getting sick again.
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No touching!
Most households contain a toothbrush holder in the bathroom. This means that everyone’s toothbrush is placed in the holder. This is all fine and swell as it keeps the bathroom organized. However, do not let your toothbrush physically touch another toothbrush. This creates the opportunity for cross-contamination for bacteria. If your toothbrush is touching other toothbrushes, it’s time for a new one.
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Do you remember?
If you do not remember the last time you replaced your toothbrush, then the odds are probably in favor of getting a new one. It is important to keep your toothbrush fresh so you are achieving the best at-home cleaning as possible.
In addition to keeping your toothbrush fresh, it is important to keep up with your dentist visits as well. At Philadelphia Dentistry, our team of smile professionals can keep your teeth top notch. In addition to cleanings and a plethora of other services, we value education. Schedule an appointment to learn more about how to optimize your dental care. To make an appointment with us, give us a call at (215) 568-6222 or email info@phillydentistry.com. We are looking forward to seeing you soon!
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