Brushing your teeth is an important part of caring for your oral health. But how clean is your toothbrush? Are the bristles looking worn? When was the last time you replaced it?
A toothbrush needs to be replaced every three months on average. However, if you’ve been sick or if the bristles are getting frayed, you may need to swap it out sooner. Our dental hygienists explain when to replace your toothbrush, how to store it properly, and how to keep it clean.
The Maximum Lifespan for a Toothbrush Is Four Months
With typical use, your brush NEEDS to be replaced every four months. No matter how it looks, once a toothbrush gets this old, it starts to harbor the growth of bacteria, mold, and other germs. If you keep your toothbrush in the same room as your toilet, it can even harbor fecal matter!
Four Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Toothbrush
How often you replace your toothbrush depends on a few things. If you get sick or if you brush your teeth too hard, you might need to replace your toothbrush more often. Toothbrushes that are worn, have been in someone’s mouth other than the owner’s, or have been in a sick mouth should be replaced right away, and every time.
- Worn-out Bristles
Bristles that are frayed, bent, or broken are not going to do a very good job of cleaning plaque off your teeth.
- A Stinky Smell
A toothbrush that smells off could be harboring mold or bacteria. If your toothbrush stinks, throw it away.
- You’ve Been Sick
Toothbrushes can spread illnesses, especially if you share a toothbrush holder with another family member.
- You Can’t Remember
Look, no one is judging. If you can’t remember when you last replaced your toothbrush, it’s probably time for a new one.
Tips for Proper Toothbrush Care and Storage
If you want to stretch replacing that toothbrush out to the full four months, you need to properly clean it and store it between uses. These tips will help you keep your toothbrush clean and functional.
- Thoroughly rinse your toothbrush in hot water after use.
- Place it in a well-ventilated area where it can dry.
- If you store your toothbrush in a bathroom, keep it in a cabinet or drawer. Every time the toilet flushes, it sends germs into the air and they could land on your toothbrush.
- Never share a toothbrush holder with another person. The proximity could spread viruses like those that cause cold sores or the flu.
- Sanitize your brush once a week. This can be done by placing your brush in a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution, or antibacterial mouthwash for a few minutes before giving it a rinse and letting it air dry.
Complete Dental Care in Flagstaff, Arizona
Dental care is an important part of your overall health. Replacing your toothbrush, brushing and flossing every day, and visiting the dentist twice a year will help you maintain your oral health at home.
At your checkup with Dr. Paul Whitney, you not only get a fresh new toothbrush, you also get a professional cleaning. These twice-yearly remove plaque and tartar and give you a clean slate for your new toothbrush. Contact us today to schedule your next cleaning and exam.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (2/28/25). Photo by Henrik Lagercrantz on Unsplash.
