Spring Cleaning — Time for a New Toothbrush?

This may seem like a silly question, but seriously, when was the last time you changed your toothbrush? The average American replaces their toothbrush 1.9 times a year. The American Dental Association recommends changing your toothbrush every 3 months.

You may wonder, why? According to researchers, bacteria thrive on our bristles. Over time, the bristles change their shape, simply wearing out and causing your toothbrush to become less effective. In fact, a new toothbrush is 30 percent more effective at removing plaque.

Worn bristles may also injure and irritate the tissues. Children’s toothbrushes need to be monitored more closely. Children tend to bite and chew on the bristles causing them to fray and wear more quickly. Those with braces should also change their brush more frequently due to the bristles becoming worn around the brackets and bands.  How to care for your toothbrush: Change every 3 months, if the brush changes its shape or you become ill (whichever comes first). Rinse your brush thoroughly before and after each use. Store so that it isn’t in contact with other toothbrushes. If using a protector cap, be sure it has ventilation holes and the brush is dry to avoid mold.