When Is the Last Time You Replaced Your Toothbrush?

Your teeth are designed to last forever if you take the time to commit to your oral health. The foundation for a healthy smile starts at home with the help of your toothbrush. It’s your first line of defense against common preventable issues, like tooth decay and gum disease, which means it’s going to get used a lot. Over time, it’s not going to be as effective. You can ensure your smile stays healthy in between appointments with your dentist by changing your toothbrush regularly. Here’s how to make the most of your brushing routine.

Change Your Toothbrush Regularly

Your toothbrush won’t last forever. In fact, if you use it at least twice a day like the American Dental Association recommends, it’s going to undergo regular wear and tear. As the bristles become worn, it won’t clean your teeth as effectively as when it was new. If you don’t replace it, you could put your smile at risk of complications. It’s best to get a new toothbrush when your bristles are worn or every 3-4 months – whichever comes first.

Pick the Right Toothbrush

Believe it or not, all toothbrushes aren’t the same. Since you have unique oral health needs and preferences, not all will be the right choice for you. With so many options available, it can be difficult to determine the best one for your specific needs. Here are some important factors to consider when picking a new toothbrush:

• Choose a toothbrush that has earned the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance.
• Choose soft bristles to avoid causing unnecessary erosion of your enamel and gum line.
• Choose a brush head that fits the size of your mouth.
• Consider the grip and handle to ensure it’s comfortable.

Manual VS Electric

One of the biggest decisions is whether to use a manual or an electric toothbrush. You might believe an electric is more effective, but this isn’t necessary true. Instead, both can offer the same benefits if you use the correct brushing methods. To get the most out of your toothbrush, it’s best to:

• Clean all surfaces of your teeth for at least 2 minutes each session.
• Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
• Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle from your gum line.
• Use gentle, circular motions to clean your teeth and tongue.

If you don’t brush as long as you should, you might want to consider an electric toothbrush because it offers more brush strokes per minute. This can help remove more bacteria and plaque if you tend to cut your brushing routine short.

Invest in a Healthy Smile

Your oral hygiene habits at home are vital to keeping your smile healthy between your semi-annual cleanings and checkups. Besides brushing, don’t forget to floss your teeth every night before going to bed.

About Dr. Makadia

Dr. Makadia strives to help patients achieve lasting results when achieving their oral health goals. Besides earning his dental degree, he’s completed additional training in many specialties, including cosmetic, reconstructive, and periodontal surgery. If you’re looking for a dentist who can provide the complete care you need, look no further. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.