Your doctors at Mt. Holly Family Dentistry have been practicing dentistry for a long time. They’ve seen it all, and have been asked just about every question related to teeth (and then some). The most common question? You probably know what it is already. Your dentist in Mt. Holly NJ is in with the answer. And the question is…

How Often Should I Change My Toothbrush?

It makes sense that this would be a common question, as brushing and flossing are your number one defense against tooth decay. It’s easy to know when to replace used floss (hint: every time), but what about that brush? It’s an important bit of information to know, but first let’s brush up on proper brushing techniques — because if you’re not doing it right, it doesn’t matter how old or new your tool is to start with.

First Things First: Tips for Proper Brushing

When you’re brushing those teeth, keep one thing in mind: TARTAR.

• Time: The number one mistake adults make when it comes to brushing is that they simply don’t it often or long enough. Make sure you’re brushing your teeth for two minutes, twice a day — every single day.
• Angle: A 90 degree angle can feel natural, but you should hold the brush at 45 degrees. That makes it easier to roll the brush from the gum downward, as well as reduces the chance you’ll brush in hard, side-to-side strokes, which can damage the gums.
• Rinse: Adding mouthwash to your dental routine can be a great idea, especially for those struggling with plaque buildup or bad breath. But don’t get tricked into thinking mouthwash is a good replacement for brushing or flossing, because it’s not.
• Touch: Too many adults think getting a good clean means brushing in hard strokes. Unfortunately, this technique can do serious damage to the mouth’s sensitive soft tissues, like the gums. Make sure you’re putting a soft touch into your brushing routine.
• After: After you brush, don’t forget to floss. It’s that simple.
• Repeat: Make a habit out of thorough, frequent brushing and flossing and you’ll be on your way to cleaner, healthier teeth in no time!

The Answer We’ve All Been Waiting For

Now that you’ve had a little refresher on proper mouth-freshening techniques, let’s get to the reason we’re here. How often should you replace that toothbrush?

Mt. Holly Dentists Say to Replace the Toothbrush Every Three Months

Whether you use a manual or electric toothbrush, over time its bristles may become frayed and worn without you even noticing. That reduces its ability to effectively clean your teeth, making it easier for bacteria to build up in the mouth. And that means decay is soon to follow.

So there you have it, folks: replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if you notice its bristles have become worn or frayed. You should also switch a brush that has been used during illness to prevent the spread of germs.

More Questions? Request Your Appointment Today

If you’ve got any other lingering dental questions, or if it’s been too long since your last oral exam, request your appointment with a 08060 dentist at Mt. Holly Family Dentistry in New Jersey today.