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Q&A: When Should You Replace Your Toothbrush?

At Malan Family Dentistry, we frequently get questions about toothbrush care and toothbrush replacement. Here’s what you need to know about the most important tool in your oral hygiene toolkit.

Q. How Often Should I Replace My Toothbrush?

A. Most dentists recommend changing your toothbrush every three months. When the bristles are new and straight, they do a better job of removing dirt and plaque from your teeth. Some studies have found new toothbrushes remove 30% more plaque than old, worn ones.

Those frayed edges can also damage your tooth enamel. Get a new toothbrush every three months to ensure you’re cleaning your teeth properly. If your brush looks frayed before the three-month deadline, replace it then.

Q. Should I Replace My Toothbrush After I’ve Had an Illness?

A. If you’ve had an infectious illness, it’s important to practice good dental hygiene. Bacterial infections and viruses can linger on your toothbrush bristles even after you’re fully recovered.

They may not have an immediate effect, but those bacteria could come back to haunt you or someone else in your house. To be absolutely safe, you have two options.

First, you can disinfect your toothbrush using one of the following methods.

• Hot water: Boil water on your stovetop or in the microwave. Immerse your toothbrush in the boiling water and leave it in for 10 minutes. Dispose of the water and rinse the brush in freshwater.

• Mouthwash: Use your mouthwash to disinfect your brush. Every few days, soak your brush in a glass full of mouthwash for 20 minutes. Never wipe it dry with a towel. Let your brush dry naturally.

Second, you can simply throw out your toothbrush and buy a new one. Whichever option you choose, it’s important to act as soon as you recover from your illness.

Q. What About Electric Toothbrushes?

A. Since replacing the brush heads can be inconvenient, you may choose to use one of the disinfecting methods. If you prefer to just replace the brush head, of course, that also works.

Q. Are There Other Times I Should Replace My Toothbrush?

A. There are some other times you should throw your old toothbrush out.

You’ve been traveling: Traveling with your toothbrush means exposing it to a whole new set of germs. You pick the germs up in a new environment and in your suitcase. To make matters worse, most people place their toothbrush in a closed case with no ventilation. That can cause bacteria to grow rapidly. Stay safe by throwing out the toothbrush that traveled with you.

Your toothbrush is wrong for you: If your toothbrush doesn’t fit your mouth properly, it may not do a thorough job of cleaning. You should also replace it if you’re using hard or medium bristles. They can seriously damage your teeth. Everyone should use brushes with soft bristles.

Q. How Do You Keep Your Toothbrush Clean and Sanitary?

A. Follow these five simple tips to keep your toothbrush clean and safe.

1. Wash your hands before you brush your teeth.

2. After you brush your teeth, rinse the brush thoroughly in clean tap water. Shake your toothbrush to remove wetness. Let it air dry.

3. Store it upright with the bristles exposed to the air.

4. Periodically clean and sanitize your toothbrush holder. Studies have found toothbrush holders often contain more germs than any other spot in your bathroom.

5. Never share toothbrushes.

Stay Healthy with Our Help

At Malan Family Dentistry, we can help your teeth stay strong and healthy. For complete dental care for your whole family, make an appointment today.