Mahkatop
Mahkatop — A toothbrush is an essential item for most people. In South Korea, brushing teeth after every meal—whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner—has become a cultural norm. People there can brush their teeth anytime and anywhere. Meanwhile, in Indonesia, brushing teeth twice a day, in the morning after breakfast and at night before bed, is still practiced.
But when exactly should a toothbrush be replaced to maintain oral health and avoid bacterial buildup?
Why Should a Toothbrush Be Replaced?
According to Real Simple, a toothbrush should be replaced regularly every three to four months. Beyond that, bacteria can accumulate on the brush. Additionally, a toothbrush should be replaced if there are signs of wear on the bristles. This is even more crucial than the length of usage.
Verywell Health notes that people who brush their teeth with strong pressure usually need to replace their toothbrushes more quickly than those who use a gentler touch.
Signs That Your Toothbrush Needs Replacing
Here are some indicators that it’s time to replace your toothbrush:
- Bristle Spread: If the bristles, which were originally neat and straight, start to spread out and become irregular, it’s time to replace your toothbrush.
- Bristle Shape: If the bristles become permanently curved or do not return to their original shape, you should replace your toothbrush immediately.
- Bristle Firmness: When the bristles that were once firm and stiff become soft, it’s a sign that the toothbrush is no longer effective at cleaning your teeth and should be replaced.
Types of Toothbrushes and Replacement Timing
- Manual Toothbrush: A manual toothbrush should be replaced every three to four months, provided there is no damage to the bristles.
- Electric Toothbrush: An electric toothbrush, which cleans the tooth surface by vibrating or rotating rapidly, has shorter bristles that can wear out more quickly. Most electric toothbrush heads should be replaced every three to four months. However, if signs of wear appear, even if only after two weeks of use, the toothbrush head should be replaced immediately.
By regularly replacing your toothbrush and paying attention to signs of wear, you can maintain good oral health and prevent bacterial buildup on your toothbrush.(*)
