Just as important as regular dental checkups is to the health of your teeth, the lifespan of your toothbrush plays a huge role in determining the level of cleanliness of your teeth. According to statistics, good number(about 42%) of the world’s population show a common oversight or lack of concern to how long they use their toothbrush. At this point, you’re probably wondering why it is so important that you even change your toothbrush at all.
Why You Should Change Your Toothbrush
There are tons of reasons why you should change your Toothbrush. One of these reasons is because after prolonged usage of a toothbrush, it will retain residues of germs and bacteria from previous usage. Over time a large deposit of bacteria and germs will be present in the brush. Upon further usage the toothbrush will only cause harm to your teeth, leading to tooth decay amongst other infections.
Prolonged usage of toothbrush leads to worn out bristles. When the bristles of your toothbrush is worn out, it will not pick out any dirt or germs. At this point you may notice slight discolouration in your toothbrush. This is a clear sign to replace it immediately.
What Type of Toothbrush Should You Use?
Whether it is manual or electric, soft or hard, the idea of what toothbrush you should use should be based primarily on the advice of your orthodontist or dentist. Each individual has distinct and unique dentition and each dentition requires conscious attention and care which can be properly interpreted by a doctor (source). This is why periodic visits to an orthodontist or a dentist is of utmost importance to everyone. Upon visit to a dentist proper knowledge on what toothbrush that best suits your dentition will be relayed.
How to Maintain Your Toothbrush
The following are basic principles that will help keep your toothbrush in the best hygienic state prior to When you get a replacement;
- Always rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after use. This is to wash off any residues of toothpaste and leftovers obtained from your mouth.
- Occasionally rinse your toothbrush with hot/warm water to wash off bacteria residues that may have accumulated over time.
- Never share your toothbrush with anyone else. Sharing a toothbrush with other people makes you susceptible to a fast spread of disease or infections.
- Always keep your toothbrush in dry and clean places. Using a toothbrush holder is a considerable option as toothbrushes are held up straight so that water residues in the bristles can fall off and dry quickly.
- Never forget to properly cover your toothbrush when you travel. This prevents the toothbrush from coming in contact with any substance that may be bad for your teeth.
A clear sign to change your Toothbrush is when another person uses it, whether intentionally or by mistake. Make sure to visit an orthodontist such as Campsie Laser Dental at least two times in a year for proper inspection inorder to prevent dental problems. Always replace your toothbrush with a new one after 3 months of usage for proper hygiene.