Most people think of a toothbrush as something that needs to be replaced every few months, but it is possible to reuse a toothbrush for up to three years. To extend the life of your old toothbrush, you should brush with it twice a day and change your bristles when they become too frayed.
Reasons To Change Out Your Toothbrush
No matter what kind, your toothbrush can last a long time if you take care of it. Proper toothbrush use does call to change it out every so often though. Here are some reasons to tell if you need to change it ous.
Change out your toothbrush if the bristles are falling out of the brush. If you have less bristles, it can cut down on its effectiveness to brush plaque away, causing more problem areas for cavities to flourish. Change out the toothbrush if you used it when you were sick.
Germs and the bacteria from the sickness can linger in the brush, causing other health issues. You should also change it out if it is contaminated, like if it falls on the floor or on the toilet. These surfaces are known to have unwanted bacteria. Lastly, change out your toothbrush if the bristles are frayed or shaped in a different way, it will cause less plaque to be brushed off of your teeth.
Best Toothbrushes To Buy
There are many types of toothbrushes on the market and it can be hard to know which one is best for you. Sonicare offers a great line of toothbrush heads that have bristles angled in multiple directions to clean better than traditional brushes. If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly option, consider a bamboo toothbrush. These brushes decompose within three months instead ofo the four years it takes for a standard plastic brush to break down.
Another popular choice is an electric toothbrush – these often come with timers and sensors that help ensure you are brushing your teeth for the recommended two minutes. If you have braces or other dental work, an electronic brush might be a good option because it is gentle enough not to cause damage to your teeth.
Finally, a toothbrush with soft bristles is an excellent choice for children – their mouths aren’t as developed and can be prone to cavities or irritation from too much force on the gums. If you have sensitive teeth, then a brush with softer bristles will help prevent any further discomfort from brushing applied pressure.
