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Your toothbrush is an essential tool to keep your teeth and gums healthy. But have you ever considered whether your good old toothbrush could be causing more harm than good? Read on to learn why dentists recommend replacing your toothbrush every two to three months.

The Problem with Old Toothbrushes

Toothbrush bristles wear down over time. Old bristles become frayed and flattened, losing their original shape and strength. As a result, they can’t reach the small crevices in your mouth, allowing plaque to build up in hard-to-reach areas. This increases the risk of developing cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.

Worn bristles also lose their ability to scrub away food particles and plaque properly, meaning even if you’re brushing regularly, your oral hygiene may be less effective. Studies show that toothbrushes become much less effective at cleaning after about three months of regular use. 

Bacteria Build-Up

Aside from being less effective, old toothbrushes can harbour bacteria.

Research by the American Dental Association(ADA) noted toothbrush heads can be contaminated with bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans (which causes tooth decay) and Escherichia coli (commonly known as E. coli). This build-up of bacteria can be more problematic if you’ve recently been sick. Toothbrush heads can retain harmful germs that may lead to reinfection.

Manual vs. Electric Toothbrushes

Manual and electric toothbrushes can lose their effectiveness over time, but electric toothbrushes have a slight advantage – they often have replaceable heads. You only need to switch out the bristle part and not replace the entire toothbrush. 

Signs You Need a New Toothbrush

After you brush your teeth, examine your toothbrush bristles. Look out for signs the bristles are worn out, feel extra soft, or are discoloured. If so, it’s time for a new one. 

Other Ways Your Toothbrush Might Be harming Your Teeth and Gums

In addition to using an old toothbrush, there are other ways your toothbrush might harm your teeth and gums.

Using a Hard Bristled Brush

Most people think stiffer bristles clean more efficiently, but harsh or medium-bristled toothbrushes can damage teeth and gums. These bristles can also irritate and injure your gums, causing them to recede. Always use a soft-bristled brush unless your dentist says otherwise.

Enamel Erosion

Aggressive brushing might wear down your tooth enamel over time. Enamel is your teeth’s protective outer covering, which doesn’t grow back once removed. This can cause heightened tooth sensitivity and an increased risk of cavities.

Overbrushing and Incorrect Brushing Technique

Brushing for too long or using the wrong brushing technique can damage your enamel and irritate your gums. Follow dentist recommendations and brush your teeth twice daily for a full two minutes.

Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and brush gently in circular movements. This helps to clean the gum line, where plaque tends to build. Gently brush your tongue to remove bacteria and refresh your breath. Some toothbrushes include built-in tongue cleaners for increased convenience.

Bathroom Bacteria

The National Library of Medicine reports that storing your toothbrush near the toilet or next to the sink exposes it to airborne microorganisms. Colgate advises against toothbrush coverings are avoided, as they keep your brush damp and ripe for bacterial growth. Don’t forget to clean your toothbrush holder, and never share your toothbrush with others.

Conclusion

If you are concerned about your brushing method or have questions about selecting the best toothbrush, Affinity Dental is here to help.  If you want to schedule a dental checkup, your Affinity Dental plan allows you to find a network dentist nearest you.