{"id":158,"date":"2020-08-13T21:43:00","date_gmt":"2020-08-13T21:43:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.marltoncosmeticdentist.com\/blog\/?p=158"},"modified":"2020-09-08T21:43:55","modified_gmt":"2020-09-08T21:43:55","slug":"wondering-how-often-to-change-your-toothbrush-read-this","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.marltoncosmeticdentist.com\/blog\/2020\/08\/wondering-how-often-to-change-your-toothbrush-read-this\/","title":{"rendered":"Wondering How Often to Change Your Toothbrush? Read This!"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\"Image<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Have you ever noticed that your once colorful toothbrush is now discolored? Or that the bristles have become frayed and tattered? If you answered \u201cyes\u201d to either of these questions, then you are not alone. In fact, the average American only replaces their toothbrush<\/a> once per year, which is far too little and can lead to a multitude of dental issues. Fortunately, you can read on for how often it should be replaced, the dangers of not doing so, and tips for helping you remember!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

So, When Should You Replace Your Toothbrush or Brush Head?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Your toothbrush plays an instrumental role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy, but only if it is in pristine condition. If the bristles become frayed, they become ineffective at removing plaque, food particles, and debris from your teeth, which leaves you vulnerable to a number of dental concerns.  Therefore, the American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months. However, you should replace it sooner if the bristles are tattered or if you were recently sick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Dangers of Not Replacing Your Toothbrush Regularly<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Initially, forgoing replacing your toothbrush seems trivial in the grand scheme of things. However, it is important to remember that your bristles can become home to bacteria that are constantly exposed to your teeth and gums over the course of its use. Over time, this can leave your mouth vulnerable to tooth decay, gum disease, and infection. Just like you wouldn\u2019t wash your dishes with a dirty sponge, it is important not to brush your teeth with an old toothbrush!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3 Tips for Helping You Remember to Replace It<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Amid the hustle and bustle of everyday life, crossing your fingers and hoping you\u2019ll remember is a recipe for disaster. Fortunately, you can use the below tips to remind you when you need to replace your toothbrush:<\/p>\n\n\n\n