3 Reasons to Change Out Your Old Toothbrush

The toothbrush is your number one oral hygiene accessory. Toothbrushes help keep your teeth and mouth clean, but how long should you a keep a toothbrush?

Dr. Wilmot recommends that you switch out that old toothbrush for a fresh new one ever 3 to 4 months. Replacing your toothbrush is essential since they are constantly being exposed to germs and bacteria. If you notice the bristles of your tooth brush have become worn that's a clear sign...you need a new toothbrush. Those of you who wear braces should change their toothbrushes frequently because braces break down and fracture bristles which makes the toothbrush lose its effectiveness.

It's helpful to keep a pack of toothbrushes available in the house at all times for easy replacement.
So mark those calendars for every 3 to 4 months and it’s out with the old and in with the new.

After reading the above you're probably thinking…”My toothbrush is fine, I have it broken in just the way I like it.” And maybe that’s true, but did you know that your old toothbrush could actually be harming your mouth?

3 Reasons to Change Out Your Old Toothbrush:

1. Bacteria - Your toothbrush is a tool for removing bacteria from your teeth…but it doesn’t actually kill bacteria. Some of the bacteria from your teeth stay on your toothbrush after you are done brushing. Now, this isn’t a problem initially, but imagine three to four months of bacteria build up on your toothbrush. That old bacteria ridden toothbrush is in your mouth at least twice a day…yuck.
2. Bristles - Like any tool, a toothbrush wears down. Worn bristles are tough on your enamel and can wear it away over time. Not only that… an old, worn toothbrush can be up to 95 percent less effective at removing plaque.
3. Illness - Always change your toothbrush after you’ve been sick, even if it’s not “technically” time to switch out your toothbrush. Do we need to say it again? Germs and bacteria in your mouth twice a day, every day.

Feel like changing your toothbrush every three months is wasteful? We’ve got a solution. Put that old toothbrush to work doing odd jobs around the house. Old toothbrushes are great at cleaning around facet fixtures and in tile grout. They can even be used to clean tools, computer key boards and tennis shoes.

Just 2 Minutes 2 times a Day

Seeking orthodontic treatment is a great way to make sure your oral health is in good shape. However, there are other factors that affect the status of healthy teeth. Brushing, flossing and eating habits are just as important. 

When treating your teeth Dr. Wilmot and her staff want to be sure they are working with healthy teeth...and developing healthy habits start at a young age.

Did you know that the baby teeth that appear in the first 3 years of a child's life have been there since birth, in the baby’s jawbones? Those baby teeth are key for chewing, speaking and appearance. They also hold space in the jaws for upcoming adult teeth. Even though they fall out, baby teeth are important and you need to take good care of them.

In an effort to help Keep Kids' Mouth's Healthy, The Ad Council has started the 2min2x Children's Oral Health Campaign. For healthier teeth, good breath and fewer cavities kids need to remember to brush their teeth for 2 minutes, twice a day. Adopting these healthy brushing habits can help save children from a lifetime of tooth pain.

Helpful Brushing Tips

    Brush with a fluoride toothpaste.
    Place the toothbrush at an angle against the gums.
    Make sure to move the toothbrush back and forth, gently, in short strokes.
    Brush the tongue to remove germs and freshen breath.

...For more tips please visit 2min2x.org

Check out this Children's Oral Health Ad campaign 

At Gwinnett Orthodontic Care we care about the overall oral health of all of our patients. If you have any questions about your oral health, please contact our office today.