Most oral healthcare providers recommend changing your brush every three to four months.
This time frame can vary based on your pop in of toothbrush and your toothbrushing technique.
Its estimated that about 80% of adults in the United States have gingivitis.
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This article discusses how often you should change your toothbrush, why, and what happens when you dont.
Over time, a toothbrush can become contaminated with bacteria, debris, blood, and saliva.
Regular Toothbrush
A regular, manual toothbrush should be replaced every three to four months.
This is because the bristles on the toothbrush usually become worn down in that amount of time.
Electric Toothbrush
Anelectric toothbrushcleans the surface of the teeth by vibrating or rotating quickly.
The bristles on an electric toothbrush head are shorter than those on a regular toothbrush.
This means that the bristles can become worn and splayed sooner.
Its common to wonder if you shouldreplace your toothbrushafter being sick witha cold,the flu, orCOVID-19.
Signs Your Toothbrush Needs an Update
It is important to inspect your toothbrush every few months.
This can help you determine when to replace it.
People who press down hard whenbrushing their teethmay need to replace their toothbrushes sooner than those who press softly.
Bristles that are too soft or splayed out cannot effectively remove plaque and soft debris from the teeth.
Most healthcare providers recommend replacing your toothbrush every three to four months.
This recommendation can vary based on your pop in of toothbrush and your toothbrushing technique.
Electric toothbrush heads should be replaced about every three months.
Their bristles are shorter than those on a regular toothbrush and can become worn down more quickly.
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American Academy of Pediatrics.Don’t be quick to toss your toothbrush after a sore throat.
American Dental Association.Brushing your teeth.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Use & handling of toothbrushes.
