As you stand over your sink and ponder the frayed bristles of your number one toothbrush, do you consider replacing it? It’s a good question. We all brush our teeth on a daily basis. Like a good pair of jeans, it seems the more we use a toothbrush, the more comfortable it gets. As it turns out, that’s not a good thing when it comes to your oral health in San Diego.
The angle of the bristles on your toothbrush is an important part of cleaning. Straight bristles scrub your teeth and flex your gums. A light circular motion is enough to clean your teeth without causing damage. Flat or frayed bristles are less effective and can even cause you to work harder to improve your oral health in San Diego. Also, pressing harder on your teeth can cause damage.
So How Often Should You Change Your Toothbrush?
Anyone who has worried about changing the oil in their car has learned this basic rule of thumb; change your oil every three months. It’s the same with your toothbrush. Most dental professionals recommend a new toothbrush every three months. Your local San Diego California dental professionals at Marcos Ortega DDS does as well. The reasons to replace your toothbrush includes worn bristles and the growth of bacteria. Worn bristles, as we have discussed, are less effective.
Bacteria can also build up in the small gaps of your toothbrush and may contribute to decay and bad breath. Make sure you keep your toothbrush in a sanitary location. Allow for good drying to help extend its life. Regardless of how long it’s been, if the bristles on your toothbrush look like they’re trying to get away from each other, it’s time to change it. Otherwise, change your toothbrush at the start of every new season to keep it fresh and effective. For more information about oral health in San Diego, call us to set up a dental consultation at Marcos Ortega DDS. We offer services such as cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and emergency dentistry.
Contact Marcos Ortega DDS:
619-295-4545
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
306 Walnut Ave Ste 25
San Diego, California
92103