Prolonged use of the same toothbrush can lead to rather disastrous consequences, and therefore it must be changed in a timely manner. First, the worn toothbrush becomes simply inefficient, and secondly, a crazy amount of bacteria accumulates on its bristles and brushing of teeth with such a brush turns into a process of their contamination.
If you continue to use a worn toothbrush, there is a risk of developing stomatitis in the oral cavity, in addition, it can easily damage the gum, this brush leaves a coating on the teeth, and this is a favorable environment for the development of caries.
However, the period of its operation may depend on the material from which the product is made. So, plastic bristles serve longer and it can be given "to live" up to four months. Popular today, bamboo brushes are changed more often, because they accumulate more harmful organisms. The health and beauty industry produces brushes that, with the color of their villi themselves, signal that it is time to waste them.
When is a new brush needed?
However, there are cases when the replacement of a toothbrush is not necessary due to the period of its use. For example, it is desirable to change the brush after infectious diseases, and also if you see that its appearance leaves much to be desired. Change the brush would not hurt even after any trip, even if it was in a case.
The usual toothbrush will tell you when it's time to change it:
- bristles are broken and stick out in different directions;
- an unpleasant plaque appeared at the base of the setae;
- has become a mold;
- brush has lost its "own" stiffness;
- on it appeared cracks;
- contaminated the surface of the rubberized areas of the brush.
Brush "ask" for a change even when it falls on the dirty floor, then washing with soap will not help.
Whatever it was, and the brush is a personal hygiene item and it requires special care. After each use, always rinse and dry the tooth savior.
Store the brush in a separate cup, or better buy a special holder, the bristles must necessarily be pointed upwards. When traveling, put the brush in a special case, and upon arrival, replace it with a new one. Do not use the case at home, this can be an additional focus for the reproduction of bacteria.
Many dentists recommend having two brushes to dry up, and once a week the brushes should be held in an antibacterial mouthwash.
The electric toothbrush needs special care. After each use, thoroughly rinse the entire structure, you can even disassemble it in parts, the brush head also change at least every three months, although the indicator will tell you when to change the head.
Clean, high-quality and comfortable toothbrush is the guarantee of health and beauty of your smile, do not forget about it!