It’s just a toothbrush, right? That thing you use to clean your teeth and add some minty freshness to your mouth? Wrong! It’s a daily tool that’s an important part of your hygiene routine, and more often than not, it’s being overlooked in importance and in care.

If you can’t remember the last time you changed out your toothbrush, then it has been too long. Unfortunately most people, only get a new toothbrush when a dentist puts one in their hand. According to the American Dental Association, as a general rule your toothbrush should be replaced or the head of your electric toothbrush every three months.

Why Replace Your Toothbrush?

• Germs – Germs and bacteria enter through the mouth. Did you know your toothbrush is alarmingly full of bacteria? Shockingly, 60% of all toothbrushes contain pathogenic organisms. Yuck! The bacteria could be your own or if you share a bathroom with roommates or family members the pathogens could be other persons. By switching out your toothbrush every few months, you greatly minimize the build-up of bacteria on your toothbrush entering your body.
  
• To Get a Good Clean – If the bristles on your toothbrush are bent or curved then it is time to replace your toothbrush. A toothbrush doesn’t probably clean your teeth if the bristles are worn down. A good test to tell if your brush is cleaning well, run your tongue along your teeth – smooth means clean. Try brushing your teeth for two to three minutes in a circular motion as well, instead of back and forth for a better clean. 
• Maintenance – For the overall health of your teeth and following routine maintenance of care, dump that old brush. Don’t wait until your sixth-month appointment to receive a new toothbrush. Additionally, most doctors recommend if you have fallen sick replacing your toothbrush once the cold/virus has passed.

A good quality toothbrush can go a long way and is an essential tool to maintain dental health. Whether you prefer electric or manual, dentists recommend purchasing a toothbrush with the ADA Seal of Approval. (Just like Kevin McCallister did in Home Alone. “Is this toothbrush approved by the American Dental Association?” Smart kid!)

Most dentists suggest a manual brush with soft, multilayer bristles. The preservation of healthy teeth and gums starts with routine dental exams and cleaning appointments. This is true as soon as teeth appear in young children.

Dental health is vital to the rest of your body’s health and wellbeing. At Family Dentistry of Columbus, you can find low-stress environment while receiving care by expertly trained professionals. So get rid of that old toothbrush and give us a call!

Contact us to learn more about our services or what we can do for your dental health needs.