How Often Should I Change My Toothbrush?
Notice any splayed bristles lately? While taking care of and brushing your teeth thoroughly is an important daily habit—how often you change your toothbrush can have more of an impact than you realize. Replacing your toothbrush regularly ensures it’s doing a good job at effectively cleaning your teeth and gums. But, how often should you be switching your toothbrush (or electric brush head) out for something shiny and new? Here’s what you need to know.
The 3-4 Month Rule
Our dental experts recommend replacing your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. Over time, the bristles on your toothbrush begin to wear down and lose their cleaning power. When the bristles start to fray, they won’t be able to scrub away plaque and food particles as effectively. To keep your toothbrush working as it should, swapping it out at about 3-4 months is essential.
Signs It’s Time for a New Toothbrush
While 3 to 4 months is a good benchmark, there’s one other sign that may indicate it’s time to replace your toothbrush earlier than expected: bendy bristles. If the bristles begin to splay out or bend before the 3-month mark, it means the toothbrush is no longer working at its best. When bristles lose their shape, they become less effective at cleaning your teeth, and that means a less thorough brushing session. If you notice your brush looking a little worn, it’s time to get a new one.
How Much Pressure Are You Using?
The amount of pressure you apply while brushing also affects the lifespan of your toothbrush. If you’re brushing too hard, you might wear out the bristles faster than usual. Over time, excessive pressure can also damage your gums, so it's important to brush gently but firmly. If you find yourself replacing your toothbrush every month or two, it might be a sign that you’re applying too much pressure. Lighten up, and you’ll extend the life of your brush (and protect your gums).
Electric Brush Heads vs. Toothbrushes
If you use an electric toothbrush, the same general rule applies: replace the brush head every 3 to 4 months. That applies to our Sonicare-compatible and soft-as-the-clouds electric brush refill heads too.
A good toothbrush is key to maintaining excellent oral hygiene, but it doesn’t last forever. To keep it effective, replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months or sooner if the bristles start to fray. Be mindful of brushing too hard and ease up on the pressure to get the most out of your toothbrush—and keep your teeth in great shape.
