According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, you should replace your toothbrush at least every three months. If you must use it longer, it should be at most four months.
Changing your toothbrush often ensures that you clean your teeth effectively. Using a toothbrush for too long causes the bristles to fray and wear out, and they will no longer clear away the plaque. With time, the plaque accumulates in your mouth, increasing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
How to Know It is Time to Get a New Toothbrush
Check your toothbrush regularly to determine if there are signs of overuse. When the bristles look worn out and frayed, it is time to replace the toothbrush. If you use an electric toothbrush, replace the head.
A worn-out toothbrush can also show signs of discoloration or have an unpleasant odor. These two signs are good barometers for knowing when your toothbrush needs replacing. Some toothbrushes become worn out even before the recommended three months, and this could leave too much plaque on your teeth.
What Happens if You Do Not Change Your Toothbrush for a Long Time?
There is not much research on the effects of not changing your toothbrush for a year. However, available knowledge indicates that nothing bad will happen to you if you use the same brush for a year. Still, the bristles of your old toothbrush cannot be good enough to remove all the bacteria, germs, and food particles lodged in your teeth every time you finish eating. After one year, you might find yourself at the dentist seeking treatment for tooth decay and gum disease.
Closing Remarks
The bottom line is that you should change your toothbrush head after every three months. If the bristles look frayed and worn out, you can change it even a little earlier. You should also change your toothbrush if you fall ill with an infectious disease. If you cannot, for some reason, change your toothbrush, rinse it in hot water and sanitize it using an anti-bacterial mouthwash.
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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, you should replace your toothbrush at least every three months. If you must use it longer, it should be at most four months.