Everyone knows it is important to replace your toothbrush often. The dentist and toothbrush distributors will tell you that you should be replacing your brush at certain intervals in time. However, you might be wondering if there are other signs that will let you know that you need to replace your toothbrush. Here are some things to look for to know it is time for a new brush.

1. Your Bristles Have Become Soft

The bristles play an incredibly important role in your brushing experience. If your bristles are not sturdy enough they will not adequately remove the plaque and bacteria from your teeth. Consequently, even though you may be brushing often, if your brush has bristles are too soft, then you are not getting the cleaning you think you are.

For this reason, you should check your toothbrush stiffness often. If the bristles are starting to fall out or if they are spreading out like a blossoming flower, then you need to replace the brush. Throw that one out, or use it to clean countertops, because it is not an effective brush to clean your teeth anymore.

2. You Have Been Sick

Anytime you have an illness you need to replace your toothbrush. Although it would be nice to think that you can rid your brush of all of the bacteria that is removed from your mouth and teeth, it is just not realistic. There will always be small traces of the bacteria, which is why you need to throw away your toothbrush if you get any kind of illness that is transferred through saliva.

If you are unable to replace the toothbrush right away, at the very least soak it in an antibacterial solution, such as mouthwash. This will help to remove as much bacteria as possible -- but still it is safer to just throw away the brush.

3. You Have Any Doubts

As a general rule it is better to replace your brush more often than not. If you have any concerns about the effectiveness of your brush, don't wait. Using a bad brush can cause decay of the teeth and cavities. Toothbrushes are inexpensive, major dental work is not. Thus, have a couple spare toothbrushes on hand so when you start to notice any problems with the brush, you can just toss it and begin anew.

By doing these simple things, you can protect your teeth. For more information, consider contacting a professional like those at Louisville Family Dental.