If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think much about your dental products. You might use the same toothbrush for months on end or use toothpaste that has expired. But if you want to keep your teeth healthy and sparkling, you should change your dental products regularly. Keep reading to learn why. We’ll look at these essential elements of daily dental care routine.
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Dental Floss
- Mouthwash
- Other Dental Products
When & Why To Swap Out Your Toothbrush
Your family dentist may have already told you that it’s best to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or sooner if the bristles start to fray or show signs of wear. Here’s why. Over time, toothbrushes can become less effective at cleaning teeth. A worn-out toothbrush can contribute to gum disease and other dental problems.
Should I Replace My Toothbrush After An Illness?
Even if you have a relatively new brush, there are some circumstances where it’s better to toss it and get a new one. Rinsing your brush out isn’t enough to kill bacteria and certain viruses. You can sanitize some toothbrushes by running them through the dishwasher (check with the manufacturer to ensure it’s okay). However, if you want to be extra protected against these illnesses, you should replace your old toothbrush with a new one.
- Flu
- Common Cold
- Stomach Bugs
- Strep Throat
- Mono
- COVID-19
Watch Out For Expired Toothpaste
You should change your toothpaste every 3-4 months or sooner if you notice a decline in its effectiveness. The main reason is that the fluoride and other chemicals gradually lose their potency and start to break down over time. Using old toothpaste can increase the risk of cavities and other dental problems.
Don’t Use Toothpaste That Irritates Your Mouth
Besides the eventual chemical breakdown, another reason to change your dental products, including toothpaste, is if it starts to bother your mouth. You might develop a sensitivity or allergy to an ingredient in products you’ve used safely in the past. So, if your gums and cheek lining feel irritated every time you brush your teeth, consider changing brands.
When To Change Dental Floss
You should replace your dental floss container every 6-8 weeks, or sooner if it starts to fray or breaks when you use it. Bacteria can grow if you toss the open box on the counter instead of closing it and storing it in a dry location after each use. This puts you at risk of sickness or infection from contaminated floss. So if your container looks dirty or gets wet, you’re better off replacing it with a new one.
Is It Time to Replace Your Mouthwash?
Replace your mouthwash every 6-8 weeks or sooner if the solution becomes discolored or murky. Mouthwash can become less effective with extended use. Like toothpaste, it’s also possible to develop sensitivities to ingredients in your favorite brand. If you suspect this is the case, talk to your family dentist and consider swapping over to a new brand if your old favorite irritates the inside of your mouth.
Replacing Other Dental Products
So far, we’ve covered four of the most popular oral hygiene products. Now let’s look at a few other less commonly used items. You should also replace tooth whiteners, tongue scrapers, oral irrigators, dental picks and sticks, and mouth guards, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. As with the other products mentioned above, some of these items can also become less effective over time, contributing to gum disease and other dental problems. When in doubt, ask your family dentist.
Preventative Care In Las Vegas, NV
Good oral hygiene at home is the first step to achieving a healthy smile, but regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also very important. Nevada Dentistry & Braces offers a wide range of dental and orthodontic services to keep your smile bright. We are always happy to answer your questions about dental products and make recommendations if you need a change. Call us today to schedule your next dental check-up or orthodontic appointment.
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