Dentists and dental professionals offer varying recommendations on how often individuals should replace their toothbrushes. While some suggest replacing a toothbrush after any illness, the American Dental Association (ADA) indicates that for generally healthy individuals recovering from a common cold, this is likely unnecessary.
However, experts like dentists Eagle and Weisbard advise replacing toothbrushes after significant illnesses, such as COVID-19, or any infection within the mouth, like strep throat. These precautions are viewed as low-cost measures that can provide peace of mind, even if the risk of reinfection from a toothbrush is minimal for most people.
Beyond illness, physical signs signal it's time for a new toothbrush. According to Eagle, a persistent odor on the brush, even after cleaning, or visible debris clogging the bristles are indicators for replacement. Additionally, if a toothbrush falls in a dirty location, it should be discarded.
Proper care and storage can help extend the functional life of a toothbrush, which is typically recommended for three to four months. Rinsing the toothbrush immediately after use to remove residual toothpaste and debris is a key step. Storing the toothbrush upright, ensuring it does not touch other toothbrushes, allows it to dry adequately between uses. Weisbard cautions against routinely covering toothbrushes or storing them in closed, dark containers, as these moist environments can promote bacterial growth more than open air. Similarly, storing a toothbrush in a drawer is discouraged.
Using an old toothbrush for an extended period can compromise the effectiveness of oral hygiene, potentially affecting how clean teeth become. Holding onto a toothbrush for more than a few months can compromise how clean your teeth get.