Has your toothbrush seen better days? If so, now is the time to replace your brush with another toothbrush. Brushing with an old toothbrush can do more harm than good, so you should replace it immediately.
When to Replace Your Toothbrush
If you notice that the head of your toothbrush looks frayed or the bristles look bent, you should not be using the brush. It will not safely clean your teeth. When toothbrushes are old, the silicone coating on the bristles also wears away. When this happens, it can scratch the enamel on your teeth, which can further abrade the surface and lead to erosion. Therefore, a toothbrush that does not look like when you first got it needs to be switched out for a new toothbrush right away.
Do You Need to Switch Out Both Manual Toothbrushes and Electric Toothbrushes Regularly?
You should replace the head on your electric toothbrush when it looks worn, just like your manual toothbrush. As a general rule, you should replace your manual toothbrush or the head of your electric toothbrush every three months, whether the brush looks like it needs replacement or not.
Switching Your Toothbrush before Three Months
Some patients notice their toothbrushes need replacement after 6week or eight weeks. If you find this to be the case, you may be brushing too hard and damaging the toothbrush. Using extra force when you brush is not good. While you may think you are doing a better job of cleaning your teeth, the opposite is true. Being too aggressive can damage the enamel, again leading to erosion and decay. Do you think you need a new toothbrush? Does it look worn or frayed? If so, replace your toothbrush now. Do not use any brush that looks worn down. If your toothbrush seems tattered after only a month, take it easier when you brush your teeth. We are always here to answer your questions about tooth brushing or dental care. Give us a call now to arrange an appointment for an exam.
