Why You Need To Change Your Toothbrush More Often

Do you known that the plaque found on your teeth is home to more than 300 different species of bacteria and 2 is the magic number – magic number of meters you should keep your toothbrush away from your toilet to avoid airborne particles from toilet flushing getting into your bristles?

Although that might be enough reasons why you need to change your toothbrush more often, here are some more compelling reasons why changing your toothbrush regularly is very important.

Normal wear and tear

After a certain period of time (usually after three months) the bristles on your toothbrush become to be ineffective at cleaning your teeth. While you may think that your toothbrush is performing well, but after few months of use it starts to lose its effectiveness at removing plaque from your teeth and gums as well as getting into all the crannies and nooks of your mouth. That is because, the bristles become dull and out of place, being unable to perform properly.

Bacterial buildup

According to dentist researches, a typical toothbrush can be a home to up 10 million bacteria. But don’t panic yet; if you take care of your toothbrush properly it can be prevented.

• Always rinse the bristles of your toothbrush thoroughly after each use and store it in an upright position. Let it air dry.
• You can also soak your toothbrush in mouthwash to help sanitize it. Soaked it for about 10 minutes and than rinse it with clear water.

You’ve been sick

If you’ve had a cold or a flu you will need to get a new toothbrush. Bacteria and viruses can live in the bristles and you can get sick again if you do not change your brush after you’ve been sick. Also, if you or someone in your family member is sick make sure not to allow your family’s brushes touch each other. This can lead contamination and reinfection to cross also. Hence, make disposing your toothbrush after a cold or flu a habit and replace it with a new one.

Signs that indicate it is time to replace your toothbrush

Though three months is the recommended time to replace your toothbrush, there are few sings that can help you know that it is time to get a new toothbrush.

• If you have a heavy hand when brushing, then you will probably need to replace your brush more often.
• If you notice that the bristles are beginning to get bent out of shape, that means it is time to replace it.
• If your toothbrush presents obvious signs of wear and tear or is dirty, it is time to replace it.

As you know already, regular brushing and flossing are important for your oral health. And an effective oral care requires a toothbrush that is in good shape and clean. So, use common sense to know when it is time to buy a new toothbrush.