“Should auld acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind.” Well, if we’re being honest, if your toothbrush is an “auld” acquaintance, we think you need these tips more than you know! This New Year’s Day start things off by ringing in the new year with a new toothbrush!
When It’s Time To Change
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends changing your toothbrush every 3-4 months. If your most important dental tool is starting to show wear with frayed, broken bristles, it’s not in the best shape to provide the right care for your teeth.
Always replace your toothbrush after an illness to avoid any reinfection due to any lingering bacteria left behind.
What to Look For in a Manual Toothbrush
In the past, you may not have put much thought into picking a new toothbrush and just grabbed one off of the shelf. But as Americans spend almost 1,000 hours brushing their teeth over a lifetime, you want to make sure you find the right brush for your teeth. Although how you brush is most important, finding the most comfortable toothbrush for you is important.
- Soft bristles are the best choice. Although hard bristles may seem like they, well, are working harder, they can cause gum tissue damage and expose the tooth root which can cause increased sensitivity to heat and cold.
- One size does not fit all. Choose a toothbrush head that fits your mouth and your comfort level, generally 1′ long and 1/2′ wide.
- When selecting a toothbrush for your child, also make sure to select soft bristles and smaller heads designed for children.
Remember, once you have your new toothbrush in hand, make sure to brush for at last two to three minutes, twice daily. And don’t forget about your routine dental check-ups! tart your new year off right by calling our office at (248) 852-3130 to schedule your next dental appointment.
