We all know how important our overall dental health is, but sometimes between the brushing and the flossing, we realize that we may need to get back to basics on a few practical dental health issues. For example, when should you replace your toothbrush? We all have friends that keep toothbrushes so long they end up looking completely mangled, while other people replace their toothbrushes habitually.
The American Dental Association recommends that you replace your toothbrush every three to four months. However if the bristles are beginning to show wear, go ahead and replace it early, worn out bristles are less effective at removing plaque from the teeth and gumline.
In addition to the three or four times a year that you replace your toothbrush as scheduled (electric toothbrushes make it possible for your to simply replace the head of your toothbrush), you should also replace your toothbrush any time you have a sore throat, a cold, the flu or an infection in you mouth. You don't want to reinfect yourself by using the same toothbrush you used when you were sick.
Also keep in mind that if you store your toothbrush with the toothbrushes of other members of your family, you may need to replace everyone's toothbrush when you get sick, because you are usually contagious for a period of time before you experience symptoms.
If you have any other dental health questions you want answered, please contact Valley Dental Care today. We are happy to provide you with the resources you need for a healthy smile.