Brushing your teeth after each meal and before going to bed is a key habit for maintaining good oral health. Thus, our toothbrush inevitably becomes the ally of our smile. The frequency with which we must replace it is a question that our patients ask us, and it is indeed an important point for maintaining good hygiene habits.
In the following, we explain the signs that should have you replace your toothbrush, as well as important information that will help you make a more environmentally friendly choice by recycling your worn toothbrushes.
When to replace the toothbrush, and why?
The Ordre des dents du Québec and dental health professionals generally recommend changing the toothbrush every 3 months. The toothbrush is specially designed to fit the shape of our teeth and to dislodge food residues and dental plaque. However, when the brush wears out, the bristles become curved, which makes them lose their effectiveness when cleaning the teeth to dislodge the plaque.
In addition, after several days of use, the toothbrush accumulates bacteria. This makes it possible for it to become a vector of viruses or infections. This is another reason to replace the toothbrush regularly.
What are the signs that you need to replace your toothbrush?
Beyond the recommendation to replace the brush every 3 months, we believe that we must rely mainly on the following signs, which indicate that the toothbrush has lost its effectiveness and that it is time to replace it.
- The bristles of the toothbrush are bent to the sides;
- A white deposit has formed at the base of the brush bristles, indicating an accumulation of bacteria;
- When you have been sick or have had an infection (flu cold, etc.).
These tips apply to both manual and electric toothbrushes. The latter are now designed so that you can change the tip with the brush.
For more information, be sure to ask your dental professionals at the Dents Mon Quartier clinic, in Lasalle and they will be glad to answer your questions and / or concerns about your toothbrush change habits!
Approved by Dre Charouk
Dr. Joumana Charouk, D.M.D, is proud to offer her patients exceptional care that combines experience, efficiency and good humor.
Dre Joumana Charouk, D.M.D