How often should you be replacing your toothbrush?

A man holds the side of his mouth in pain as he brushes his teeth

Your toothbrush has 10 million bacteria on it right now...

03 August 2017 2 minute read

Do you think that just because you brush daily and floss regularly, your oral hygiene is impeccable?

We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but that brightly coloured toothbrush you’ve been putting in your mouth probably has about 10 million (yep, you read right) bacteria on it right now according to The Journal of Advanced Medical and Dental Science.

If that furry fact wasn’t enough to gross you out, the study also showed that that viruses and bacteria, including E. coli and Staphylococcus falling from toilet spray were able to remain airborne long enough to settle on surfaces of your bathroom… including that toothbrush sitting on your vanity.

So, how often should you be replacing your toothbrush and what can you do to reduce the amount of creepy crawlies making a home on your mouth sweeper?

Right now your toothbrush probably has about 10 million bacteria on it

1. Snag Yourself a New One

Dentists recommend that you replace your toothbrush every three months, but consider forking out for a new one more regularly if you’ve been sick, or if you happened to drop it on the bathroom floor…

2. Wash it Up

Obviously if you’re putting a dirty brush in your mouth, you’ll be making your mouth dirtier… right? There are very few proven ways to clean your current toothbrush (other than simply buying a new one), however, The American Journal of Dentistry recommends soaking your brush in mouthwash for 20 minutes to get rid of gunk.

A father and daughter brush their teeth together

3. Move your Molar Mop

The research published in The Journal of Advanced Medical and Dental Science shows that up to 60% of toothbrushes stored in the bathroom are covered in faecal matter. Consider moving your toothbrush into a cupboard or cabinet or alternatively, remove your brush from the bathroom altogether and store elsewhere in the house.

Along with replacing your toothbrush, you’ll need regular visits to your dentist to keep your mouth in tip-top condition.

Is it time for a dental check-up?

Our nib First Choice network should be your first port of call to keep your out-of-pocket expenses low. It’s our community of specially-selected health providers who have agreed to provide nib members with quality healthcare and great customer service at an affordable price.

You can choose to see the dentist of your choice, but by choosing an nib First Choice provider, it simply means you could pay less. Search the nib First Choice network now to find a provider.