When it comes to at-home dental care, your toothbrush is one of the strongest weapons you have to fight against cavity-causing plaque. But while these handy tools work hard, they don’t last forever. As PdC Dentistry, S.C. explains, toothbrushes that are past their prime may not provide your smile with the complete clean it needs. If you’re not sure when to trash your brush—or bristle head—consider these guidelines from this trusted family dentist of Prairie Du Chien, WI.

When to Replace a Toothbrush

After 3 Months

According to the American Dental Association, it’s generally recommended individuals replace their brushes about every three to four months. At this point, the bristles start to weaken and fray, making it harder for them to effectively remove cavity-causing plaque and food particles from the teeth and gums.

To make sure you don’t lose track, consider marking a reminder on your calendar as soon as you open a new package or writing the date directly on the handle with a permanent marker. If you’re not sure how long you’ve had a toothbrush, you can also look at the bristles to see if they are losing their shape.

After You’ve Been Sick

The mouth is a prime place for bacteria to grow and spread, particularly if you’ve been sick. As such, toothbrushes can easily become contaminated with germs when illnesses, such as the flu or cold, arrive. To keep things hygienic, family dentists say it’s best to start with a fresh brush once you recover. If someone in your household has been sick—and keeps their toothbrush next to yours—you might also want to consider a replacement.

After Long-Term Closed-Container Storage

When traveling, it’s common for people to wrap up or store their toothbrush in a closed container. When moist bristles are stored in a contained area, germs can grow fast, increasing the risk of contamination. If you forgot about a used toothbrush in a closed container for a day or longer, a replacement is recommended.

While a toothbrush may be in perfect shape, it might also be time to look for a new option if the bristles are causing bleeding, sensitivity, or other types of discomfort. Fortunately, the trusted specialists at PdC Dentistry, S.C. can help you review your oral care tools and habits to recommend solutions for more comfort and better dental hygiene. Whether you’re due for a cleaning or have concerns about your oral health, this family dentist office offers all the advanced resources and expertise to reliably protect and restore smiles. Visit the clinic online to learn more about their general, restorative, and cosmetic services. To schedule an exam at their convenient Prairie Du Chien, WI, location, call (608) 326-8458.