Food spoils when it has been around too long, and clothes acquire holes or do not quite fit when they have been around too long – but how long is a toothbrush lifespan?
According to the American Dental Association, your toothbrush should be replaced every three to six months. Before you start thinking that is just a way for the ADA to stay in business, this is one piece of government driven advice that you can trust no matter what side of the political fence you sit on.
Your toothbrush is a tool that is designed to keep your teeth as clean and health as possible between dental cleanings. The bristles are needed to clean away bacteria and food particles left behind after eating. While these numerous bacteria are necessary for the mouth to function properly, an overabundance of bacteria can be extremely damaging to the teeth. However, when using your toothbrush to clean the bacteria away from the teeth, they will inevitably be trapped on your toothbrush. It is important that you rinse your toothbrush by shaking it vigorously under tap water after every use, but this will not eliminate all of the bacteria. Germs and bacteria thrive on moist surfaces, and unless you dry your toothbrush with your hairdryer after every single use, its moist surface will harbor bacteria.
It is also important that you are intentional about getting a new toothbrush anytime that you have a bad cold, the flu, or strep throat. What a shame it would be to start feeling better and then infect yourself again with the same sickness because of the germs on your toothbrush.
Call Family & Cosmetic Dental Care in Johns Creek today. We will be happy to discuss a toothbrush lifespan with you and even supply you with a brand new toothbrush after your dental cleaning to last you until your next appointment!
Posted by Mitul Patel DDS, Family & Cosmetic Dental Care
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2627 Peachtree Pkwy Suite 440
Suwanee, GA 30024
Phone: (770) 888-3384
