advice: how often should i replace my toothbrush?

whether you’re using an electric toothbrush system, the manual drugstore kind or the titanium toothbrush that comes with special anti-bacterial coating and retails for $4,200, changing your brush four times a year is a good idea.

“as a rule of thumb, the soft-bristled toothbrush should be replaced every three months or when the bristles start to flare out,” explains dr. charles frank, president of the ontario dental association . “the same applies for the head of an electronic toothbrush.”

flaring is a problem because over time, toothpaste, water, and a rigorous brushing motion can make the bristles on your toothbrush break and bend in all directions. this prevents your brush from doing its job — with flared bristles, picking up and removing food debris and plaque buildup becomes more difficult, leaving you more vulnerable to a host of problems, including tooth decay and gum disease .

the impact flared bristles can have on your toothbrush’s performance and your overall mouth health is the only reason you’d want to switch things up a few times a year — usually. if you’re sick with seasonal cold or flu, different rules may apply. you might think that all those nasty germs can linger on your toothbrush, and while that can be true, there is no evidence to suggest that it can get you sick again. when we fight off a nasty bug, we usually produce antibodies that help prevent it from coming back, but this may not apply to everyone. it is recommended that those who are immunocompromised or going through cancer treatment should discard their toothbrush after their cold or flu symptoms resolve.

when it comes to oral health, regular checkups, proper brushing and flossing twice a day can help keep your whole mouth healthy. eating whole grains, nuts, fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and calcium-rich foods is also important, as they provide the essential vitamins and minerals your teeth and gums need. limiting sugar in your diet can help prevent tooth decay and brushing your teeth immediately after consuming sugary drinks and foods can help you avoid plaque , which forms after molecules combine with saliva and bacteria in your mouth. plaque can be detrimental to your teeth as it can dissolve enamel and lead to cavities.

dental experts suggest that if the bristles on your brush repeatedly flare, you’re probably brushing too hard, which could lead to tooth sensitivity , enamel erosion and may even make your gums recede . frank advises against using a hard-bristle brush, and instead, recommends one with softer bristles to ensure it won’t harm your teeth and gums.