No matter how old you are, replacing your toothbrush is something most people don’t quite take care of as often as they should. In fact, most adults don’t even know when the right time to replace their toothbrush is! At Marx Family Dental, our family dentists in Gladstone, MO have a few tips we share with our patients to make sure you’re changing out your toothbrush often enough. Here’s what they had to say:
The bristles are going a million different directions
A surefire way to tell it’s been too long since your last toothbrush replacement is to look at the bristles. If they’re going every which way rather than looking straight and in line with each other, it’s time for a new one. Also if they’re frayed at the ends, that’s no good!
You were sick
When you’re sick, you’re filled with germs. Those germs are then transferred to your toothbrush every time you brush. To be safe it’s a good idea to just replace it when you’re feeling better. This way, those pesky germs don’t get you again if they’re hanging out on your toothbrush.
Your toothbrush has been in places other than your toothbrush holder
Since your toothbrush is cleaning your mouth, you want to make sure your toothbrush is clean! Whether you’ve been traveling with it in a travel container or accidentally dropped it on the bathroom floor, it’s time for a new toothbrush. A simple run under hot water isn’t sufficient!
You can’t remember the last time you got a new toothbrush
If none of the above scenarios ring true, the last question to ask yourself is when you got a new toothbrush last. If you can’t remember, odds are it’s time for a new one! A standard rule is every quarter, so every three months. So many toothbrushes come in packs of 4 these days, so just buy one in January and you’re set for the year! Plus, when you come for your next appointment we’ll give you one, too!
Ready to schedule your appointment (and get that free toothbrush)? Call us at (816) 452-2000 to make dental appointments for you and your family today!