You use your toothbrush twice a day, but how do you know when it's time to replace it? The American Dental Association suggests every 3 months, but it also depends on your usage, health and personal preferences.
How to Make Your Toothbrush Last Longer
- Store your toothbrush upright in an open container (at least two feet from the toilet)
- Clean your toothbrush holder once a week
- Wash your hands before using your toothbrush
- Rinse your toothbrush and shake dry after each use
- Do not share your toothbrush with anyone else
- Keep your toothbrush away from others
How often should you replace your toothbrush?
Replace your toothbrush every 3 months. You may consider switching it out sooner if you've been sick or have a mouth sore. If the bristles become frayed - toss it because they won't clean as thoroughly and can cause gum irritation.
Eco-friendly Toothbrush Recommendations
We don't sell toothbrushes at Dr. Brite, but here's a list of eco-friendly toothbrush recommendations that work well with our toothpast with natural ingredients:
Smile Squared - Made with bamboo and packaged in recycled cardboard
Bogobrush - Made with recycled plastics, that can be recycled again
Preserve - Made from recycled yogurt containers, with a mail-in recycling service
The Source by Radius - Made from recycled flax, wood or U.S. dollar bills with a discardable head
Also, on a related note, check out the 'Best Toothbrush For Braces' review.
The Benefits of an Electric Toothbrush
When using proper brushing techniques optimal oral health results can be achieved with both manual and electric toothbrushes. If you are considering purchasing an electric toothbrush, here are some of the benefits:
Can be more effective.The average adult completes nearly 300 strokes per minute when using a manual brush. But since an electric toothbrush typically rotates between 7,000 and 30,000 strokes per minute, it can help remove more plaque and keep teeth cleaner.
Helps with timing. You can select an electric toothbrush that pulses every 30 seconds as a reminder to switch quadrants or beeps at the end of two minutes. This feature ensures that you brush your teeth for 60 seconds every time.
Apply correct pressure.When using an electric toothbrush, you don't need to worry about how soft or hard you are brushing your teeth because the toothbrush is programmed to monitor the applied pressure. This can be very helpful for kids and aging adults who lack the ability to apply the correct amount of force.
Environmentally-friendly.Because only electric toothbrush heads need to be replaced, there's less landfill and many of these heads can be recycled. On average it takes about 25 replacement heads to equal the plastic in just one manual toothbrush!
No matter if you brush your teeth with an electric or manual toothbrush, remember to floss and rinse! Also eat a balanced diet, and visit the dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.
Try using the Start Pure Wanderlust electronic toothbrush today and pair with the Dr. Brite's gluten-free toothpaste with organic ingredients.
FAQs
1. Is covering your toothbrush bad?
According to the American Dental Association, a toothbrush cover may help prevent your toothbrush from being contaminated by outside germs, but it also collects moisture, which results in the development of bacteria, not healthy bacteria. Therefore, remove and discard those covers.
2. What is the best way to disinfect your toothbrush?
The majority of germs can be effectively killed by immersing your toothbrush head in boiling water for at least three minutes. After using your brush, rinse it with cold water to bring it back to a safe temperature. You should also wait a few minutes before using it again to prevent overheating.
3. How do I keep my toothbrush healthy?
To make your brush last longer and to keep it clean, simply rinse it with hot water and let it dry out comfortably. Keep the head from touching the sink as it may shorten its life as well as spread germs among family members. Any moisture left on the brush head will grow bacteria over time. Dry your toothbrush after each use and store it in a cool, dark place. You should begin with a new toothbrush at least every 3-4 months or if it shows wear and tear. Another thing worth mentioning is that you should always replace your toothbrush when you change toothpastes, as the bristles may be too worn to effectively clean your teeth with the new paste. The bristles will get worn with use and you won’t be getting the clean you need.
4. Where is the best place to store your toothbrush?
The best place to store your toothbrush is on a shelf in your bedroom. Keep it far away from the toilet and sink if you keep it in the bathroom. Alternatively, you can keep it in a large closet to keep it cold and dry.
5. Should I keep my toothbrush in the bathroom?
Avoid keeping your toothbrush in direct contact with your toilet. Any closer it gets to your toilet, the greater the chance that it will be sprayed with that plume. According to the American Dental Association, it's not a major concern when it comes to your overall health (ADA).
