Is it time to change your toothbrush? Next time you brush your teeth, do ask this question!
While almost everyone brushes their teeth daily, only a few check their toothbrush before. Unlike clothes, shoes, or towels, toothbrushes are neglected by almost everyone. There are so many of us who are using frayed, old toothbrushes without a second thought!
Our experts answer the most viral question: When should I change my toothbrush?
There are two main types of toothbrushes: electric and manual. Both of these are accepted equally by the dentists. You may choose the one you are comfortable with using every day.
A manual toothbrush is a small, portable brush available in various bristle types, the most acceptable being the ultra-soft manual toothbrush. You have complete control over the pressure and speed of brushing when using a manual toothbrush.
The electric toothbrush is a powered brush, where the bristles oscillate and rotate to achieve effective cleaning. It is available in both battery-powered and rechargeable versions. The rotating bristles allow easy cleaning along the gum line, and the built-in sensors (in most brushes) ensure that you brush long enough at optimum brushing pressure. Electric toothbrushes are highly recommended for people with low dexterity and children. The only drawback is that they are expensive and quite bulky when compared to a manual toothbrush. Also, when used by children, ensure parental guidance while brushing to ensure excessive manual pressure is not applied, as it may cause wear off of the tooth surface.
It is important to keep your toothbrushes clean. Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after each use and keep it exposed to the air. Closed containers can allow microbial growth on the toothbrush. Thus, keeping them upright and allowing air to dry the brush is recommended. Disposable toothbrushes can be used while travelling.
The ideal time to change a toothbrush is between 3 and 4 months. However, if your toothbrush is visibly frayed, it is better to change it right away.
If you have been sick (e.g., fever, cold, cough, or any infectious disease), it is better to change your toothbrush once you have recovered. Also, store your toothbrush away from that of a healthy family member.
Children often brush more rigorously than adults. Thus, their toothbrushes become frayed faster and need constant changes of toothbrushes.
Still wondering which toothbrush is best for you? Get a dental check with Hyderabad’s best dentists only at Dhriti Dental, Nallagandla and Manikonda. Book your appointment now!
Ideally, you should change your toothbrush every 3-4 months.
Both work the same; electric toothbrushes are recommended for the elderly and people with decreased dexterity. It is better to use an electric toothbrush if you feel you are unable to clean your teeth properly with a manual toothbrush.
An ultra-soft or a soft manual toothbrush is highly recommended by dentists.
A toothbrush appears frayed when the bristles point in different directions, become rough, or have broken bristles. These toothbrushes must be changed immediately.
Store your toothbrush upright in a dry place. Do not cover the toothbrush, as it may cause bacterial growth on the toothbrush.