How Often to Replace Your Toothbrush
When it comes to good dental hygiene, we all know the basics. Brush your teeth twice a day, keep up with flossing, use a good mouthwash, and maybe even try out a tongue scraper for additional benefits. Your toothbrush is one of the most important tools in your quest for the best, healthiest smile. As something you use twice a day (sometimes more), it’s likely seen some things. So, how often should you replace your toothbrush or electric toothbrush head?
We asked dental experts to share everything you need to know about changing your toothbrush (including signs it’s time for a new one, what happens if you dont’t replace it often enough, and more), so you can rest easy knowing you’re protecting your tooth and gum health.
How often should you change your toothbrush?
“Ideally, you should try to replace your toothbrush on a three-month basis,” says Marina Gonchar, D.M.D., a board-certified orthodontist in Morristown, NJ. After this period of time, the toothbrush can become less effective in cleaning your teeth. “After three months, the bristles of the brush often break and fray, which makes it less effective at removing plaque and can even result in gum irritation and recession,” explains Gonchar. “Additionally, it is essential that your toothbrush is not colonized by harmful bacteria, which becomes more and more likely with prolonged use.”
If you use an electric toothbrush, the timeline is largely the same. “Like with a manual toothbrush, electric toothbrush heads should be replaced every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed,” says Matthew J. Messina, D.D.S., consumer advisor spokesperson for the American Dental Association (ADA). “The toothbrush heads of both manual and electric toothbrushes are similar in composition and are subject to the same issues with overuse, such as the fraying of bristles and bacterial overgrowth,” adds Gonchar.