Why You Should Change Your Toothbrush Every Few Months

  • Thread starter archis
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In summary, dentists and medics recommend changing toothbrushes every few months because the bristles wear down and become less effective at removing plaque and bacteria. Older toothbrushes can also be contaminated with bacteria and should be replaced if they have been dropped or shared. While some may see this as a ploy by the toothbrush industry, the fact remains that old toothbrushes are not as effective at cleaning teeth and maintaining oral health.
  • #1
archis
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1
I always wondered why those medics and dentists say you must change your tooth brush after months. Can somebody explain me this. Do you have to change it becouse of some bacils? If yes this leads me to two questions:
1) Doesnt tooth paste suposed to kill bacils in my mouth and on tooth brush?
2) Or if the evil bacils are so bad why we are'nt suposed to change tooth brush everytime we use it?

For me its a clear lobby for toth brush industy to make people spend their money.
 
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  • #2
archis said:
I always wondered why those medics and dentists say you must change your tooth brush after months. Can somebody explain me this.
They wear down and so are less effective at brushing.

1) Doesnt tooth paste suposed to kill bacils in my mouth and on tooth brush?
I wouldn't have thought toothpaste kills that many.

2) Or if the evil bacils are so bad why we are'nt suposed to change tooth brush everytime we use it?
Bacteria aren't going to live for very long on a dry nylon toothbrush. You could rinse it in mouthwash if you are worried.

Compared to the stuff that normally lives in your mouth I wouldn't worry.
 
  • #3
mgb_phys said:
They wear down and so are less effective at brushing.
Seconded.

The bristles get soft and flatten out. Switch to a new one and the difference will be like night & day.

Stay with the old one and you are doing your gums a disservice.
 
  • #4
I aint worried about the tooth brush it self. Question is that smart people like medics and dentists do that kind of a lobby. I had all kinds of brushes: standart, electric, brush with gumm massage (i hate that one). Now i have eko brush from egypt -a root of a plant and its surprisingly good. But still my favorite brush is like 5 years old, kind find that one on a market. If here is some dentist please prove me wrong.

''The bristles get soft and flatten out'' good point, only my old toothbrush isn't flatten. And compered to oder ones i think its more easy to use and its better.
 
  • #5
These are the reasons I've always been told. I can see that the shredding of the bristles is true.

Why Should You Replace Your Toothbrush So Often?

A brand new toothbrush has clean bristles with rounded edges. When used properly, new brushes can gently sweep away plaque, bacteria, and food debris without damaging your teeth, gums, or general health.

On the other hand, older toothbrushes have bristles with broken, frayed, and sometimes sharp edges. These conditions make a toothbrush less effective at removing plaque and bacteria, and the sharp edges can sometimes damage gum tissue. In addition, older toothbrushes can be contaminated with bacteria, viruses, and fungus. For this reason, it's especially important to replace your toothbrush if you've had a cold, cold sores, or infection, dropped your toothbrush on the floor or other contaminated area, or shared it with someone else.

http://www.dentist-chicago.net/Hey-Doc-When-should-I-replace-my-toothbrush.html
 
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  • #6
archis said:
I aint worried about the tooth brush it self. Question is that smart people like medics and dentists do that kind of a lobby.
Then you have already reached your conclusion. Why are you asking us?

Our answer is that toothbrush bristles wear down. Claiming there's a motive in someone wanting you to change it regulary does not eliminate the undeniable fact that they do wear down, and do need to be changed for that reason alone.
 

1. Why is it important to change your toothbrush every few months?

It is important to change your toothbrush every few months because over time, the bristles on your toothbrush can become frayed and less effective at removing plaque and bacteria from your teeth. Additionally, bacteria can build up on your toothbrush, which can lead to oral health issues.

2. How often should I change my toothbrush?

Generally, it is recommended to change your toothbrush every 3-4 months. However, if you notice that the bristles are frayed or if you have been sick, it is a good idea to change it more frequently.

3. Can using the same toothbrush for too long cause oral health problems?

Yes, using the same toothbrush for too long can lead to oral health problems. As mentioned before, the frayed bristles and bacteria buildup can make your toothbrush less effective at cleaning your teeth, which can increase your risk for cavities and gum disease.

4. Is it necessary to replace my toothbrush if I have been sick?

Yes, it is recommended to replace your toothbrush after you have been sick. This is because the bristles can harbor bacteria and viruses, potentially leading to reinfection. It is better to be safe and replace your toothbrush to prevent any potential health issues.

5. Can I extend the life of my toothbrush by sanitizing it?

While it may seem like a good idea to sanitize your toothbrush to extend its lifespan, it is not recommended. The bristles can become damaged and less effective after being exposed to high heat or chemicals. It is better to replace your toothbrush every few months to ensure optimal oral health.

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