Replacing Your Toothbrush

Your Keller TX dentist is here to remind you to replace your toothbrush at least once every three months. A toothbrush is home to thousands of bacteria, and as it gets used, it becomes less and less effective—how can you clean something using something dirty?

It is recommended that you replace your toothbrush once every three months. However, you made need to replace it even sooner than that. Dr. Patel recommends replacing it as soon as you notice that the bristles have begun to fray.

Replacing Toothbrush When Sick
It’s winter time, and that means it’s cold and flu season. So, do you need to replace your toothbrush every time you get sick? The answer is no! You don’t have to, but it certainly can’t hurt. Due to the harmful bacteria from your illness, there may be lingering bacteria on your bristles, so the idea of switching out your toothbrush isn’t as silly as it seems!

If the idea of germs bothers you, then you can either replaces the toothbrush or even sanitize it! There are antibacterial solutions available to soak your toothbrush in to remove any potentially harmful bacteria from your sickness.

Storing Your Toothbrush
If you don’t take good care of your toothbrush, you may need to replace it more often. It is important to keep your toothbrush at a safe distance from the toilet and other brushes. We recommend storing it in an open container and in an upright position.

Storing your toothbrush properly can help to ensure that minimal bacteria can contaminate and live within the bristles. If you aren’t sure the proper ways to store a toothbrush, be sure to ask our team.

Tips to Remember Replacing Your Toothbrush
Many patients at our office claim to have trouble remembering when three months have passed. The ADA recommends visiting the dentist once every 6 months, so you can use that to help you remember when to replace your brush.

We recommend changing your toothbrush around the same time that you visit our Keller TX dentist for a checkup. You can then change it again either 3 months after that appointment, or 3 months before your next one—whatever is easiest for you to remember!

No matter what, be sure that you replace your toothbrush as often as possible for optimal results. For more information on how to brush, how to store a toothbrush, and how to achieve maximum oral health, contact Esthetique Dental by calling (817) 741-1240 to schedule an appointment.