Is Your Toothbrush Worn Out? Here Is Why It Matters More Than You Think
Most people follow the basic rules of oral hygiene: brush twice a day, floss when possible, and visit the dentist. But even perfect habits fail if the toothbrush itself can no longer do its job. A worn toothbrush stops cleaning effectively long before most people notice it. How Often Should You Replace Your Toothbrush? Dentists recommend replacing your toothbrush every three to four months. This applies to both manual brushes and electric brush heads. After this period, bristles lose the stiffness needed to remove plaque properly. However, the clock is not the only rule. The real test is how the bristles look. If they start to bend, splay outward, or look flattened, the toothbrush is already ineffective. Many people see this wear far earlier than three months, which usually means they are brushing with too much pressure. Why Worn Bristles Cannot Clean Properly Fresh bristles have rounded, tapered tips that sweep plaque out of tiny grooves. Worn bristles lose their shape and ...