Menu
  • Home
  • Locations
    • Junction Drive
    • Winfield
  • Blog
  • Search
  • Contact Us
  • Membership Club
MENU
Contact Us Membership Club
Join Our Incredible Team!
Logo
Junction Drive Call Today 956-242-6745
Request an Appointment
1310 Junction Drive, Suite D, Laredo, TX 78041
Winfield Call Today 956-517-2695
Request an Appointment
3402 E. Del Mar Blvd.,
Suite 260, Laredo, TX 78041
  • Google
  • Facebook
  • Youtube
  • Yelp
Request an Appointment
  • Home
  • Locations
    • Junction Drive
    • Winfield
  • Blog
  • Search

How Often Should You Change Your Toothbrush?

January 11, 2020
Image Text: Cosmetic Dentistry | Smile | Davenport Dental Group | Laredo, TXImage Title: Cosmetic Dentistry | Smile | Davenport Dental Group | Laredo, TX
Home > Blog > How Often Should You Change Your Toothbrush?
January 11, 2020

Your toothbrush is at the center of your oral health routine. When is the last time you replaced yours?

The average American changes their toothbrush only 1-2 times a year. Yet, according to the American Dental Association (ADA):

  • Toothbrush bristles should always be relatively straight or be just barely bent
  • Toothbrushes should be changed every three months
  • Toothbrushes should be replaced after you recover from a cold

At Davenport Dental Group in Laredo, TX, we strive to make sure we are doing everything we can to help our patients maintain good oral health. That includes keeping our patients informed about ways they can maintain or improve their dental habits.

Is It Time to Replace Your Toothbrush?

Sometimes a toothbrush will need to be replaced less than three months after it was first used. If you know what to look for, you can spot the signs that your toothbrush is ready to be replaced.

Many toothbrushes have indicators that tell you when they are ready to be replaced. Typically, the toothbrush will have a few rows of blue bristles. You should replace your toothbrush when that blue color fades.

Some electric toothbrushes also have an indicator that will tell you when it is time to replace the brush bead. If you have an electric toothbrush, read the instruction manual so you know what to look for.

Why You Should Replace Your Toothbrush

If a toothbrush is used for too long, the bristles begin to wear out and fray, making the toothbrush ineffective in the fight against bad bacteria. Replacing your toothbrush several times a year will:

  • Remove up to 30 percent more plaque than with an older brush
  • Protect gum tissue from damage caused by frayed or worn bristles
  • Help you avoid harmful bacteria that can build up on an old toothbrush

How To Keep Your Toothbrush Clean

Your toothbrush is regularly exposed to bacteria that can cause health issues such as the flu virus, cold sores, and ear, nose, and throat infections. To better protect your toothbrush from germs and keep it as clean as possible, make sure to:

  • Store your toothbrush vertically, in an open, dry area
  • Store your toothbrush separate from other toothbrushes to avoid cross-contamination
  • Thoroughly rinse your toothbrush after each use in warm, not hot, water

See Your Dentist for Regular Checkups

In addition to replacing your toothbrush at least every three months, seeing your dentist regularly is an essential part of a complete oral health routine. As long as you follow the steps to maintain good dental hygiene, we recommend coming in for a checkup every six months.

During your time with us, we can provide additional information on maintaining good oral hygiene, and give your mouth a complete, professional cleaning that even the best toothbrush can’t provide.

As a leading dentist in Laredo, TX, we are excited about and ready to provide all your dental needs. Call us at 956-242-6745 (Junction Drive) or 956-517-2695 (Winfield) or contact us online to schedule an appointment or to ask any questions. We look forward to hearing from you.

Read Our Patient Testimonials
Rate Us
Feedback Form Feedback Form Feedback Form Feedback Feedback
956-242-6745
Call Us Today

1310 Junction Drive, Suite D, Laredo, TX 78041
Our Hours
Wednesday8:30AM - 5:30PM
  • Monday 8:30AM - 5:30PM
  • Tuesday 8:30AM - 5:30PM
  • Wednesday 8:30AM - 5:30PM
  • Thursday 8:30AM - 5:30PM
  • Friday 8:30AM - 4:00PM
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
  • Google
  • Facebook
  • Youtube
  • Yelp

Junction Drive

956-242-6745
1310 Junction Drive, Suite D, Laredo, TX 78041
Request an Appointment

Winfield

956-517-2695
3402 E. Del Mar Blvd.,
Suite 260, Laredo, TX 78041
Request an Appointment

Latest Blog Articles

Visit Your Restorative Dentist to Start Smiling Again

Stop hiding your smile. You can fix what has happened. Your restorative dentist is ready to repair your ...

Read More
4 Ways to Love Your Smile With Cosmetic Dentistry

With Valentine’s just weeks away, it’s time to show your teeth some love. Cosmetic dentistry in Laredo, TX can put ...

Read More
  • Google
  • Facebook
  • Youtube
  • Yelp

Junction Drive

956-242-6745
1310 Junction Drive, Suite D, Laredo, TX 78041
Request an Appointment

Winfield

956-517-2695
3402 E. Del Mar Blvd.,
Suite 260, Laredo, TX 78041
Request an Appointment

Latest Blog Articles

Visit Your Restorative Dentist to Start Smiling Again

Stop hiding your smile. You can fix what has happened. Your restorative dentist is ready to repair your ...

Read More
4 Ways to Love Your Smile With Cosmetic Dentistry

With Valentine’s just weeks away, it’s time to show your teeth some love. Cosmetic dentistry in Laredo, TX can put ...

Read More
  • Home
  • Blog
  • Contact Us
  • Site Index

© 2023 Davenport Dental Group | All Rights Reserved |Privacy & ADA Accessibility Guide|Sitemap

*Results May Vary By Individuals