How Often Should I Change My Toothbrush?

According to the American Dental Association, old toothbrushes should be replaced with a new one once every three or four months. If your toothbrush becomes visibly worn out (i.e., matting or fraying of the bristles), replace it immediately. A toothbrush with visible wear won’t clean your teeth effectively and could even cause harm to your teeth, gums, or mouth. If you’ve been sick recently, this could be another reason to replace your toothbrush, even if it’s not worn.

What Type of Toothbrush Should I Use?

Experts say you can use either a manual toothbrush or a powered toothbrush to brush your teeth. [1] Whichever type of toothbrush you use, it should have soft bristles. Although medium bristles are also effective, they’re not recommended since they can injure the gums, resulting in a gingival abrasion. [2]

Manual Toothbrushes

There are a staggering number of manual toothbrushes on the market. It can be overwhelming to choose one that’s both affordable and effective. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends looking for a toothbrush with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. [3] These toothbrushes have been tested for safety and efficacy.

The ADA also recommends using a toothbrush with angled or multi-level bristles. These types of toothbrushes have been proven to remove plaque more effectively. [4]

Powered Toothbrushes

Powered toothbrushes can be an effective method for cleaning your teeth, but they tend to be significantly more expensive. You may find it worth the extra cost of an electric toothbrush if you have braces or mobility issues due to a disability. The ADA also grants its ADA Seal of Acceptance to certain power toothbrushes that have been proven safe and effective. [5]

Guidelines for Toothbrush Care

Regardless of the type of toothbrush you choose, it’s essential to keep it clean and in good working order. The better you care for your toothbrush, the more effectively it can work to care for your teeth. Here are some best practices for proper toothbrush care, according to the American Dental Association: [6]

• After brushing, rinse your toothbrush thoroughly before storing it away. This ensures there’s no remaining toothpaste or food particles left on the brush.
• Don’t cover your toothbrush as this can promote bacterial growth on the bristles. Instead, keep it in an upright position during storage and let it air dry.
• Don’t allow anyone else to use your toothbrush.
• Replace your old toothbrush with a new one every three or four months, or sooner if the bristles become worn or show signs of wear.

Guidelines for Proper Brushing

The type of toothbrush you use and how you care for it are important, but it’s also crucial to learn proper brushing techniques to ensure you have clean teeth and a healthy smile. Below are effective brushing guidelines from the American Dental Association to ensure the best oral care: [7]

• Brush twice a day for two minutes at a time to effectively remove plaque buildup.
• Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride.
• Apply gentle pressure to clean effectively while avoiding injury.
• The ADA recommends the following brushing technique: Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line while moving the toothbrush back and forth over the surface of your teeth, using short strokes. To clean the inside of your teeth, tilt the brush vertically and move the toothbrush up and down in short, gentle strokes.

See Your Dentist Regularly

No matter how effectively you brush or take care of your toothbrush, it can’t replace regular check-ups with your dentist. To protect your oral health, schedule a check-up and professional cleaning with your dentist at least once a year. [8] Ask your dentist if you need to see them more regularly for a healthy, bright smile.

Frequently Asked Questions About How Often to Change Your Toothbrush