Why You Should Change Your Toothbrush More Often Than You Think – And What to Look Out For
Taking care of your teeth isn’t just about having a bright smile – it’s also about staying healthy. Even though there are so many fancy dental products out there, your basic toothbrush (or an electric one) is still the most important tool. But here’s the truth – toothbrushes don’t last forever. Dentists say they need care and should be replaced regularly. Parade explains this clearly in a recent article that’s catching attention online
So, how often should you change your toothbrush?
According to Parade and the American Dental Association (ADA), you should get a new toothbrush every three months – or sooner if the bristles start to wear out. Dr. Erin Fraundorf, a dentist quoted by Parade, says once the bristles start looking bent or spread out, your toothbrush is not cleaning properly anymore.
To make it easier to remember, another dentist, Dr. Lauren Becker, told Parade that you can change your toothbrush every time the season changes – that’s four times a year!
The gross sign you shouldn’t ignore
Here’s something that might surprise (or disgust) you: When your toothbrush bristles start to fray or lose shape, it can actually trap bacteria, says Dr. Kartik Antani in Parade. He adds that when bristles crack, they stop being soft and can hurt your gums or damage your tooth enamel.
Even worse, Parade reveals that these cracks can let plaque grow inside your toothbrush – and plaque is exactly what you’re trying to get rid of by brushing. Talk about backfiring!
More warning signs that your toothbrush needs to g
Besides fraying, Parade lists other signs to watch out for:
- Bad smell
- Bristles changing color
- Toothbrush feels stiff
- You’ve been sick recently
- Mold or dirt building up
- Your teeth don’t feel clean after brushing
- Your gums feel irritated
Even though the ADA says there’s no strong proof that brushing with an old toothbrush after being sick will make you sick again, many dentists (including ones quoted by Parade) suggest it’s safer to toss it out after an illness.
Newer toothbrushes give you clues
Parade mentions that some toothbrushes now come with helpful features. Manual ones may have color markers that fade over time, while electric ones might alert you when it’s time for a change. But if your brush doesn’t have that, just look at it. If it’s frayed or worn out, it’s time to replace it.
Should you clean your toothbrush
While sanitizing isn’t a must, Parade says you can do it safely at home using mouthwash or even hydrogen peroxide. Dr. Antani suggests once-a-week soaking in a cup of water with a retainer-cleaning tablet to kill germs. But don’t microwave your brush or put it in the dishwasher – Parade warns that heat can damage it.
Final tip: Keep it clean daily
To make your toothbrush last longer, rinse it well after each use and cover it with a cap. Dr. Antani tells Parade that simple habits like this can help keep bacteria away and help your brush stay in good shape until that 3-month mark.
The big takeaway
Old toothbrushes aren’t just less effective – they can actually be harmful. Parade makes it clear: changing your toothbrush regularly is one of the easiest ways to protect your teeth and health.
So next time you’re brushing, take a second look. If those bristles look tired, it might be time to give your toothbrush a well-deserved break. Your teeth (and your dentist) will thank you.
Credits: All expert tips and medical advice in this article are sourced from Parade’s health coverage and respected dental professionals quoted by Parade. For more health stories and smart dental tips like this, be sure to check out Parade regularly.
Let’s get brushing – and tossing! 
https://parade.com/health/unexpected-habit-that-can-cause-cavities-according-to-dentists