Like anything you use daily, your toothbrush wears out over time. And when it does, it might
stop doing its job properly, leaving plaque, bacteria, and even bad breath behind.
Let’s take a closer look at when (and why) you should be replacing your toothbrush — and
how to make sure you’re getting the best results from your daily brushing routine.
When Should You Replace Your Toothbrush?
Dentists recommend changing your toothbrush (or electric brush head) every three months.
Why? Because worn-out bristles don’t clean your teeth properly and can irritate your gums.
You should also swap your brush sooner if:
- You’ve had a cold, flu or COVID
- The bristles are frayed or splayed
- It smells funny or looks discoloured
- Someone else used it by accident
What Happens If You Don’t Replace It?
Using a worn-out toothbrush doesn’t just mean a less effective clean — it could lead to a few
sneaky issues:
- Increased plaque build-up – Bristles can’t sweep away plaque as well
- Gum irritation – Frayed bristles are rough on sensitive gums
- Tooth decay – If you’re not removing debris properly, decay can creep in
- Bad breath – Lingering bacteria = unpleasant smells
- Bacterial contamination – Especially if your brush isn’t stored correctly
Soft, Medium or Hard — Which is Best?
Here at Hadfield Family Dental, we nearly always recommend soft-bristled toothbrushes.
Why? Because they’re gentle on your gums and enamel, but still do a great job of cleaning.
Harder bristles can wear down your teeth — especially if you brush too hard.
Manual vs Electric: Does It Make a Difference?
Both can work well!
- Manual: Easy, affordable, portable
- Electric: Consistent brushing, great for kids or people with limited mobilit
Just remember: Electric brush heads need replacing every 3 months too.
Toothbrush Care 101: Do’s and Don’ts
DO:
- Rinse thoroughly after each use
- Store it upright in a holder so it can air dry
- Keep it away from toilet sprays (yes, really!)
- Change it every 3 months or sooner if needed
DON’T:
- Share your toothbrush
- Use a closed container for storage at home (traps moisture and bacteria)
- Press too hard while brushing — gentle is best
- Ignore signs of wear and tear
Helping Kids With Their Toothbrush Habits
Kids often chew their brushes, so they may need a new one more often. Try:
- Letting them pick a fun design
- Using a 2-minute timer or song
- Replacing their brush each school term
Need help picking a kid-friendly option? Ask us next visit!
Eco-Friendly Toothbrush Options
Want to do better by the planet while still taking care of your smile?
There are now lots of eco-friendly toothbrushes available, including:
- Bamboo toothbrushes
- Recyclable heads for electric brushes
- Biodegradable packaging
The Bottom Line: Small Swap, Big Impact
A clean, fresh brush ensures you’re giving your teeth the best possible care — every single
day.
And if you’ve got questions about the best brush for your needs, we’re always happy to help.
Book your next appointment with Hadfield Family Dental — and let us help you
keep that smile sparkling.
Dr Reem Ali is the Head Dentist at Hadfield Family Dental, having practised for more than two decades as a qualified general dentist. Dr Ali possesses an immense passion for all things dentistry. Over the past 14 years, Dr Ali and her team have served the local Hadfield community by providing comprehensive dental care to patients of all age groups, driven by the steadfast belief that everyone deserves to have a healthy and beautiful smile. Dr Ali has a special interest in the field of Invisalign (clear teeth straighteners) and keeps tabs on advancements made in this area of dentistry.