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How often should you change your tooth brush?

Probably sooner than you think.

There are some things that school just never teaches you. Things like how to do your taxes, how to vote correctly, and how often you should be changing things like sheets, bath towels and tooth brushes.

Never fear, for BHG is here and we have all the answers that you’re looking for! When it comes to keeping your pearly whites healthy and your teeth in tip-top condition, the humble tooth brush the most important tool in your arsenal. However, improperly caring for your tooth brush, or failing to change it regularly, can mean your teeth are not getting the thorough clean they need to thrive.

Oral B recommends changing the head of your electric tooth brush – or normal tooth brush – every three months. However, if the bristle on your toothbrush become bent or frayed before that time, then they need to be replaced as soon as the bristles start to look worn.

Unfortunately, a toothbrush showing even the smallest signs of fraying or bending will not remove as much plaque from your teeth as a new tooth brush.

woman brushing teeth
(Credit: Getty) (Credit: Getty)

What tooth brush should you use?

But when it comes to buying a new tooth brush, you need to be careful about what type of brush you are buying.

In an interview with podcast Mouthing Off, Dr Craig Wilson of Sydney Holistic Dental Centre said this:

“You need to have this particular brush being effective, it needs some level of rigidity but should always be a soft toothbrush. The moment you see the bristles starting to distort: change it. You’re far better changing it early than too late.”

However, the doctor went on to explain that if anyone in the household has a cold, change the tooth brushes right away to avoid a build up of bacteria. Similarly, you should always ensure your brush is totally clean before you put it away.

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