When Should I Change My Electronic Toothbrush Head?

Here are some recommendations from Drs. Nilash and Nitash Patel of Serenity Dental in Lutz, Wesley Chapel, and Zephyrhills.

Did you know that powered toothbrushes provide anywhere from 10 to 49 percent greater plaque removal than manual brushes? Maintaining this effectiveness means periodically changing your power brush head.

Research shows that a new brush head is nearly 30% more effective at cleaning teeth than a head that’s months old. After twice-daily brushing for three to four months, bristles tend to fray and become matted. Sometimes, evidence of wear isn’t visible to the naked eye, but under microscopic inspection, the over-use becomes obvious. In a damaged state, the bristles will not clean as effectively and can actually harm teeth and gums.

Some electronic toothbrush heads have a color-change indicator to remind you when it’s time for a new head. If your toothbrush does not have a color reminder, you can mark your calendar for a new one every three months. Some people remember that when the season changes, it’s time for a new toothbrush head. Others set cell phone alerts, post a sticky note in their medicine cabinet, or write the replacement date on their bathroom mirror in whiteboard marker.

At Serenity Dental, we also recommend immediately shopping for a pack of heads when you run out, because you are less likely to replace the head right away if you have to go shopping first.

Don’t wait to make your next teeth cleaning and checkup appointment! Staying on top of your oral health, means less need for restorative dentistry and a more beautiful smile.

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