{"id":301,"date":"2022-09-04T02:27:00","date_gmt":"2022-09-04T02:27:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lauraphilippsdmd.com\/blog\/?p=301"},"modified":"2022-10-15T02:28:17","modified_gmt":"2022-10-15T02:28:17","slug":"how-often-to-replace-toothbrush","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lauraphilippsdmd.com\/blog\/2022\/09\/04\/how-often-to-replace-toothbrush\/","title":{"rendered":"How Often Should You Replace Your Toothbrush?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\"circle<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Do you remember the last time you replaced your toothbrush? If not, it\u2019s probably time to do so. Regularly changing it out is an essential but often overlooked practice that can affect your oral health. Read on to learn from your dentist in Midland<\/a> how often you should change out your toothbrush and what can happen if you don\u2019t replace it as recommended.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

When Should You Get a New One?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

According to manufacturer guidelines and dentist recommendations, you should be replacing your toothbrush every 12-16 weeks. Following this rule is essential to get the most out of your brushing sessions. Straight soft bristles and an easy-to-grip handle are best to navigate the smaller spaces in your mouth, eliminating bacteria that cause gum disease, decay, and bad breath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ideally, you should be brushing your teeth for two minutes twice per day, between each meal, and after a sugary snack. At this rate, the CDC recommends replacing it as soon as the bristles fall out, appear splayed, or become worn out (typically 3-4 months). And if you or a household member has been ill, it\u2019s best to get a new toothbrush after recovering to prevent getting sick again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Happens If You Don\u2019t Replace It Regularly?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Each time you brush your teeth, the bristles are exposed to water and toothpaste chemicals, making them a little weaker after each use. Over time, the bristles also start to warp into a new shape and become frayed. Studies show that after 40 days of consistent use, worn-out bristles can make your toothbrush lose cleaning capability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Those who didn\u2019t change out their toothbrush after 40 days experienced significantly more plaque buildup. Additionally, two earlier studies confirmed that since old toothbrushes cannot remove plaque as effectively, it increases your risk of gum disease and decay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tips for Taking Care of Your Toothbrush<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Taking care of your toothbrush is crucial to get the most out of your oral hygiene routine. Here are a few tips for maintaining it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n