Having good oral hygiene is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to stay on top of your overall health. It is widely advised that you brush your teeth at twice a day to maintain optimum oral health.
However, what is not as known is that it's important you change your toothbrush every three to four months. It isn’t just your brush itself that needs replacing though. You should also be often changing the toothbrush head.
Here, we’ll explore the importance of replacing your toothbrush head, the recommended frequency, and tips for keeping your toothbrush in top condition.
Why it’s important to change your toothbrush head?
Your toothbrush is your first line of defence against plaque, bacteria, and other harmful substances that can accumulate in your mouth.
Over time, the bristles on your toothbrush head wear down and become less effective at cleaning your teeth and gums. Here are some key reasons why changing your toothbrush head regularly is essential:
Bacteria buildup
Toothbrushes can harbour bacteria, fungi, and viruses. While most of these microorganisms are harmless, some can cause infections, especially if you have a weakened immune system or oral health issues.
Wear and tear
The bristles on your toothbrush head become frayed and less effective at removing plaque and food particles. This can lead to poor oral hygiene and an increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
Optimal cleaning
A fresh toothbrush head ensures that you are getting the best possible clean. This helps maintain healthy teeth and gums and prevents bad breath.
How often should you change your toothbrush head?
The general recommendation from dental professionals is to change your toothbrush head every three months. With most manual brushes you will be replacing the toothbrush head when you replace the brush itself.
However, if you have an electric toothbrush it might be that you have to replace the head, rather than the brush. You should do this every three to four months in line with how often manual brushes are replaced.
As Sustuff, our minimalist bamboo manual toothbrushes come with detachable and changeable heads. This means you can change your toothbrush head in line with the recommended guidelines, without needing to buy a whole new brush.
Our brushes come with three replacement heads. You can also subscribe and save to buy more replacement heads in the future for as little as £0.75 per brush.
There are several factors that might necessitate more frequent changes:
Illness
If you have been sick, it’s a good idea to replace your toothbrush head to avoid reintroducing bacteria or viruses into your system. This is particularly important if you have had a contagious illness such as the flu or the cold.
Visible wear
If the bristles are frayed, bent, or discoloured, it’s time for a new toothbrush head, even if it hasn’t been three months.
After dental procedures
If you’ve had a dental procedure, such as a filling or extraction, consider changing your toothbrush head to prevent infection. This is because your mouth may be more susceptible to bacteria during the healing process.
Signs it’s time to change your toothbrush head
Even if you haven’t reached the three-month mark, there are signs that indicate it’s time for a new toothbrush head...
Frayed bristles
Over time, the bristles on your toothbrush head will start to fray and lose their effectiveness. If you notice this, it’s time for a replacement.
Discolouration
If the bristles are discoloured or stained, it could be a sign of bacterial buildup or wear and tear.
Unpleasant odour
A bad smell coming from your toothbrush head is a clear indication that it’s for a change. This typically happens if your toothbrush is old, meaning it may have a lot of bacteria buildup or food particles trapped in the bristles.
After illness
It’s a good idea to replace your toothbrush head to avoid reintroducing germs into your mouth if you have recently been sick. You don’t want to risk getting sick again, particularly if you have had a contagious illness.
Tips for maintaining your toothbrush
To get the most out of your toothbrush head and ensure it stays clean and effective, these are the tips you should follow.
Proper storage
Store your toothbrush in an upright position and allow it to air dry. You should avoid keeping it in a closed container, as this can promote the growth of bacteria. If you do use a toothbrush cover, make sure it has ventilation holes.
Rinse thoroughly
After each use, rinse your toothbrush head thoroughly with water to remove any remaining toothpaste and debris. This helps prevent the buildup of bacteria and keeps your toothbrush clean.
Avoid sharing
Never share your toothbrush with others, as this can spread bacteria and viruses. Each person should have their own toothbrush, and they should be stored separately to avoid cross-contamination.
Regular cleaning
Occasionally soak your toothbrush head in an antibacterial mouthwash to kill any lingering germs. You can also dip the bristles in boiling water for a few seconds to disinfect them.
The next step to better brushing
Just by simply changing your toothbrush head regularly, you are being proactive in ensuring that you have great oral hygiene. Don’t forget to mark your calendar or set a reminder to change your toothbrush head every three months.
If you are concerned about the number of times you may have to replace your toothbrush head, why not look at our bamboo toothbrushes?
Their durable handles with low-waste, detachable bamboo heads make them perfect for those of you who are concerned about disposing of toothbrushes and toothbrush heads regularly.
Browse our toothbrushes here!