How Often Should You Change Your Toothbrush?

How Often Should You Change Your Toothbrush

It can be challenging to know when to change your toothbrush. Most of us brush our teeth at least twice a day, but if you are brushing your teeth with an old germ contaminated and frayed brush – then you may be doing your teeth a disservice. 

According to dentists and oral health professionals, you should change your toothbrush every 12-16 weeks. But if you have been ill, then you should think about replacing it sooner; otherwise the illness may last longer or reinfect you! As children tend to brush their teeth a lot rougher than adults, you should replace your child’s toothbrush every 8-12 weeks instead.

A frayed toothbrush will not clean your teeth effectively and germs may linger in your mouth. Also, reusing an old toothbrush for over 16 weeks can cause mouth infections, increases your chances of having gum disease, and causes mouth ulcers.

You can make the lifetime of your toothbrush last longer if you care for it properly, by rinsing it properly after each use making sure excess toothpaste is out of the bristles, you should keep the bristles dry between uses, and never share it with anybody else (no matter how close you are with them).

Happy Brushing!

Want to learn more about keeping your teeth healthy? Schedule an appointment with us today if it’s time for a dental check up!