Everyone knows that a toothbrush is an essential tool for caring for their teeth, but have you ever heard about how to care for your toothbrush? Over time, your toothbrush will wear down, making it less effective. Bacteria can also build up on your toothbrush over time. When is the last time you replaced your brush? If you can’t remember, it is probably time!

When to Replace Your Toothbrush

Depending upon different factors, your toothbrush will wear out over time. How hard you brush, how you store it and the quality of the brush can all play a role. As bristles become worn and frayed, the effectiveness of your brush will start to decrease, making it a less effective tool. If you notice the bristles of your brush are starting to look worn, you should change brushes. Even if your brush still looks pristine, it is recommended to replace it every 3-4 months.

Sharing Isn’t Caring

Never share your toothbrush! Not with your spouse, best friend, grandma or even child. When you share your brush, you can exchange bodily fluids, microorganisms, and bacteria. This can increase both parties’ risk for developing an infection.

Caring for Your Toothbrush

After you clean your teeth, gums, and mouth, you should thoroughly rinse your toothbrush with tap water. This will remove any debris or toothpaste which may be left on your brush. You should always store your brush in an upright position to allow the brush to air-dry properly. If storing brushes together or in a holder, make sure the brushes are separated to prevent any cross-contamination. Storing your toothbrush in a cover or a closed container is never recommended; a moist environment can actually promote microorganism and bacteria growth. Always store brushes in an area with open air which can help dry the brush and decrease growth.