In short: Change your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if the bristles fray, and always after an illness. A worn brush can’t clean properly. Rinse it and let it air-dry upright, and never share it. If yours wears out much faster than three months, you’re probably brushing too hard.
Change your toothbrush — or the head of your electric brush — every three months, and sooner if the bristles start to look bent, frayed or splayed out. A worn brush simply doesn’t clean well. Once bristles lose their shape, they can’t reach into the grooves of your teeth or clean along the gumline properly, so plaque gets left behind even if you’re brushing diligently.
There’s also a second, important reason: after any illness, such as a cold, flu, throat infection or fever, replace your brush. Germs can linger on the bristles and there’s no sense re-introducing them to your mouth once you’ve recovered.
A few practical tips to get the most out of each brush:
- Rinse it thoroughly after every use and let it air-dry upright. Bacteria thrive on a damp, closed brush, so avoid sealed travel caps for everyday storage.
- Don’t share a toothbrush, ever — it transfers bacteria and blood-borne germs.
- Keep it away from the toilet and store brushes so the heads don’t touch each other.
If you find your brush wearing out much faster than three months, you may be brushing too hard. That’s worth correcting, because heavy pressure damages enamel and gums far more than it improves cleaning. A soft brush used gently lasts longer and treats your teeth better.
Not sure whether you’re brushing too hard or missing spots? Bring it up at your next dental check-up and we’ll take a look.