Toothbrushes are pretty important; these nifty little devices are our primary means of cleaning our teeth and preventing nasty oral health issues from affecting our well-being. And these days, there are all sorts of types and designs, each suited for specific needs—including child-specific brushes to help your little one maintain their smile! But how often should you replace your child’s toothbrush? Here’s what your child’s dentist wants you to know.
How Often Should I Replace My Child’s Brush?
The bottom line is that toothbrushes aren’t intended to last forever; as your little one uses their brush, it’ll inevitably become worn and frayed, eventually needing to be replaced. Every time a toothbrush is used, the bristles are exposed to water and chemicals from the toothpaste, as well as pressure from the user, weakening the bristles. Studies show that older brushes are much less effective at removing plaque buildup on teeth, increasing the likeliness of oral issues like tooth decay and gum disease.
This means that toothbrushes generally need to be replaced every 3 months, but there are a couple of exceptions. If your child or someone close to them was recently sick, it’s wise to replace their brush with a new one. Also, if upon inspection you notice that your child’s brush appears to have frayed bristles, it’s a sign to get them a new one.
Tips for Keeping Your Child’s Brush in Great Shape
Even though toothbrushes will eventually be replaced, as with any grooming or hygiene tool, it’s still wise to help your child keep their current one in optimal condition. Here are some tips to help them with this:
- Ensure that your child isn’t sharing their toothbrush with anyone or using someone else’s.
- Encourage your child to brush properly, without using excess pressure on the bristles.
- When they store their toothbrush, be sure it isn’t touching any other brushes.
- Be sure they’re rinsing their brush with tap water after brushing.
- Clean their toothbrush holder regularly to prevent the spread of germs.
Your child’s smile is a source of happiness for them, and one way to ensure its health and beauty is by simply providing your little one with the correct tool for keeping it clean. That said, don’t hesitate to replace your child’s toothbrush (as well as your own) as often as necessary!
About the Author
Dr. Homer Sedighi received his DMD from the Washington University School of Dental Medicine and is a proud member of numerous professional organizations including the American Dental Association and the Missouri Dental Association. His practice is thrilled to offer a wide range of pediatric services that are certain to help your little one achieve a beautiful and healthy smile. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to schedule a visit for your child, feel free to contact Dr. Sedighi through his practice’s website or by telephone for assistance: (636) 428-3664.