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Brushing your teeth twice a day (and flossing once a day!) is a fundamental part of a good oral health routine. But it takes more than brushing consistency and proper technique to maintain a healthy mouth. Knowing how often to replace your toothbrush is also crucial for long-term oral health.
Experts in This Article
dentist and owner of Deering Dental
cosmetic and restorative dentist at Levy Goldman Dentistry
an orthodontist at Dobie Revolution Orthodontics
dentist at King Village Dental
dentist and co-founder of Riven Oral Care
It's true: holding onto old toothbrushes—or brush heads for an electric brush—can contribute to improper cleaning, bacterial overgrowth, a buildup of dental plaque (the sticky yellow-white stuff that grows between your teeth), and even oral health conditions like gingivitis—an early form of gum disease that causes inflammation.
So, when should you replace your toothbrush? And are there any expert-approved options out there to buy? Dental experts share all here.
How often should I replace my toothbrush?
It’s recommended to replace your toothbrush every three to four months, says Naomi Goldman, DDS, a cosmetic and restorative dentist at Levy Goldman Dentistry. If you have braces, you should replace your brush more often—every two to three months—due to the added wear from brackets, says Thomas Dobie, DDS, MDS, MS, an orthodontist at Dobie Revolution Orthodontics.
“Toothbrush bristles function like a sponge, absorbing bacteria and microorganisms from your mouth each time you brush,” Dr. Goldman says. “The longer you use your toothbrush, the more germs it accumulates. Failing to replace it every three to four months increases the risk of spreading infections in your mouth,” she adds.
Also, toothbrush bristles fray over time, which makes it harder for them to clean your teeth effectively. “Bristles get worn,” says Royce Lai, DDS, a dentist at King Village Dental. “That means they aren't getting plaque, food debris, and bacteria off as they were when they were new.” This in turn can lead to plaque or bacterial buildup, which can increase your risk for dental issues like cavities or gum disease.
And the health risks don’t stop there. “In severe cases, gum disease can cause tooth loss—not just from decay, but because your gums retreat from the bacteria, leading to recession and loss of the support holding your teeth in place,” says Yenile Pinto, DDS, dentist and owner of Deering Dental. “Studies have linked [gum disease] to an increased risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and even certain cancers. Changing your toothbrush is a small but powerful way to protect your overall health.”
To avoid these health risks, it’s also important to replace your brush if the bristles start to break down sooner than three months, says Fatima Khan, DMD, a dentist and co-founder of Riven Oral Care. She also recommends swapping out your toothbrush after you’ve had a cold, flu, or oral fungal infection to avoid reintroducing any lingering bacteria.
What about cleaning my toothbrush?
While regular replacement is essential, it’s also a good idea to clean your toothbrush in between uses. Dr. Lai recommends rinsing your toothbrush thoroughly under hot water after each use to flush out residual toothpaste and food particles, reducing bacterial growth.
Dr. Pinto also suggests a weekly cleaning routine to further disinfect your toothbrush. “Soak it in a 50/50 mix of water and hydrogen peroxide for 15 minutes to kill bacteria,” she says. “No fancy cleaners needed—just this simple disinfecting trick keeps your brush fresh and safe to use.”
Proper storage also plays a role in keeping your toothbrush clean. “Your toothbrush should be stored standing upright so that it can thoroughly dry each time, which helps to prevent bacterial growth,” says Dr. Dobie. And Dr. Khan recommends storing your toothbrush as far away from the toilet as possible and closing the toilet lid when flushing, to reduce the risk of bacteria particles spreading into the air or onto other bathroom surfaces.
6 toothbrush options that are worth the buy
Choosing the right toothbrush can significantly impact your oral hygiene routine. In general, dentists recommend an electric toothbrush over manual. “Yes, a manual can do the job if used properly, but most people don’t brush the way they should,” says Dr. Pinto.
To help you find your next brush, here are some expert-recommended picks:
Procter & Gamble Oral-B Pro 1000 Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush White 1 Count Adults and Children 3+
$49.94
This electric toothbrush is an excellent option at an affordable price, says Dr. Lai, offering effective cleaning without unnecessary features. It comes with three easy-to-use cleaning modes and a built-in timer, so you never spend too little time brushing one spot. Plus, it fits with most Oral-B brush heads.
Oral-B Smart 1500 Electric Toothbrush (Packaging May Vary) White, 1 Count
$89.99
Dr. Pinto recommends this electric toothbrush for its effective cleaning power and smart features like a pressure sensor (which tells you if you're brushing too hard or soft), and a built-in timer. It even has a whitening mode for an extra sparkly smile.
Oral-B iO Series 7
$217
Though it’s a splurge, Dr. Pinto calls this model “the Rolls-Royce of toothbrushes” thanks to its advanced technology, which includes a pressure sensor, personalized cleaning settings, charging travel case, and app connectivity so you can monitor your oral hygiene in detail and track brushing progress.
Colgate Total Active Prevention Foaming Clean Soft Toothbrush, 2 Count
$8.96
If an electric toothbrush is not for you, Dr. Lai says this manual option is an all-in-one cleaning solution because of its built-in tongue and cheek cleaner. It also comes in several different bristle types, but he recommends going with the soft version to protect your gums from irritation.
The bottom line
Ideally, you'll want to replace your toothbrush every three to four months (or more if you have braces or the bristles wear out quickly). This is a simple yet important part of any oral hygiene routine to keep your teeth in tip-top shape and reduce your risk for cavities, gum disease, and other health issues. Plus, it'll make your smile shiny and clean.
Dentists say soft-bristled toothbrushes and electric toothbrushes are the most effective option. To keep it as clean as possible, rinse your brush with hot water after each use, allow it to fully dry, and disinfect it weekly.
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