Oral health care is usually not as complicated and difficult as most people make it seem. Taking care of your teeth is as simple as brushing and flossing twice a day, avoiding sugary food items, and visiting the dentist in Aurora twice a year for a routine check-up. One part of oral health care that most people overlook is changing their toothbrushes regularly.
If you cannot remember the last time you bought a new toothbrush, this is a sign that you need a new one. Regardless of whether your toothbrush is in good condition or not, it should be replaced at least once every 3-4 months. If you are looking to get teeth cleaning in Aurora, visit a dentist today and learn more about the importance of changing your toothbrush.
Benefits of replacing your toothbrush regularly.
- Worn-out toothbrushes are damaging to your gums.
When toothbrushes become 3-4 months old and wear out, their bristles become hard. Brushing your teeth with worn-out nylon bristles can be harmful to your enamel as well as your gums. New toothbrushes have soft bristles with a round and soft edge. On the other hand, old toothbrushes have sharp edges.
Brushing with old toothbrushes is extremely harsh and harmful and can lead to gum recession. If your toothbrushes wear out too quickly, talk about proper brushing habits with your dentist.
- Old toothbrushes have accumulated bacteria.
Although toothbrushes are meant to clean plaque and bacteria off your teeth and gums, some bacteria stay behind on the bristles. It is important to rinse your toothbrush thoroughly under the water to remove as much bacteria as possible. However, some bacteria still stay and multiply. The only way to ensure effective oral bacteria removal is to replace your toothbrush every once in a while.
- New toothbrushes remove more plaque.
Obviously, new toothbrushes are stronger and more effective than old and worn-out ones. When you eat food, some particles are left behind on your teeth which mix with your saliva and turn into plaque. If this plaque is not cleaned at the right time, it can turn into tartar and contribute to gum diseases and cavities. Brushing with old toothbrushes may not remove plaque properly.
New toothbrushes come with strong bristles and avoid plaque and tartar build-up.
- New toothbrushes prevent you from getting sick again.
When you become sick and brush your teeth, the viruses and bacteria that cause your illness transfer to your toothbrush. Using the same toothbrush after you get better increases your chances of getting sick again.