Studies Say You Should Change Your Toothbrush More Often

A new toothbrush can remove 30% more plaque than an old toothbrush

June 24, 2007
By: Ken Nelson, DDS, Dentistry

Many of us do not even give it a second thought. We receive a new toothbrush every time we visit our dentist for a check-up and dental cleaning and that is enough for us. Right?

WRONG!

Sadly enough, most people change the oil in their car more often than they change their toothbrush.

Be sure to change your toothbrush, or toothbrush head (if you're using an electric toothbrush) before the bristles become frayed. When the bristles get this way they do not effectively clean the crevices of the teeth.

Studies show that a new toothbrush can remove 30% more plaque than a toothbrush that is three months old.

The American Dental Association has long recommended that patients change their toothbrushes every three to four months. Many toothbrushes now come with color indicators to indicate when it is time for a change.


Something else you should know is that old toothbrushes may harbor harmful bacteria that can cause infection such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Consider running your brush through your automatic dishwasher to disinfect between replacements.

Just as you change the oil in your car because you want to protect that investment, change your toothbrush because there is no bigger investment than you and your family.

Remember 3 months or 3,000 smiles!

Your health and well-being is important to us. Feel free to call if you have any questions.