My toothbrush wears down after one week!

Question:

Hi
The bristles on my toothbrush begin to wear away after 1 week of usage twice a day!  What should I do? Should I change my brush every week?

Answer:

This is a clear sign that you are brushing your teeth entirely too hard.  Remember, brushing, when done the right way, is great for your teeth.  However, brushing too hard is actually bad for your teeth.  It prematurely wears away enamel and can eventually cause sensitivity close to the gum line.  Enamel does not regenerate and you may eventually need a restoration (filling) if you continue to brush with great force.  Continue to brush after each meal but just remember that light to medium force is all you need to accurately clean your teeth.  The bristles in your toothbrush should at least last 2-3 months (see our article on when to change your toothbrush).  Any time less than this is an indication that you may brush too hard.  Also, if you happen to use a soft bristles, step it up to medium strength bristles.  These may last a little longer in your situation.

Good Luck!

When to replace your Toothbrush

Does your toothbrush look like the picture below?  If so, it’s about time for a new one.

How often should I change my toothbrush?

• Preferably every 3-4 months
• When the bristles are worn out
• After any type of illness including a cold, flu, mouth sore, etc

Why should I change my toothbrush that often?

Toothbrushes are harbors for bacteria.  If not cleaned effectively, microscopic bacteria can reside in your toothbrush.  Also, after time and after several uses, toothbrushes lose their effectiveness.  Once the bristles begin to wear down, they are not as efficient at cleaning plaque and removing food and other debris from your teeth.

Additional toothbrush tips

• Be sure to thoroughly rinse your toothbrush with warm tap water after each use to effectively clean it
• Let your toothbrush air dry after each use. Do not store it in a travel case (unless you are traveling of course).
• Also, be sure to use soft or medium bristles. Using a toothbrush with hard bristles can actually do more harm than good!!! Toothbrushes with hard bristles are only meant for denture or removable appliances only.

So, remember to pick up that new toothbrush at your next trip to the store and let’s start new with maintaining your oral health!