By: Brian (Ruibo) Wu
Along with improved living standards, people are starting to pay more and more attention to the health of their teeth. Many people spend hundreds of dollars each year on plastic surgery and cosmetic dental work but ignore the most fundamental care for their teeth – the toothbrush.
The toothbrush is the first defense tool against gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. It could efficiently remove food residues or bacterial diseases which usually located at the bottom of teeth. Most people know the importance of toothbrushes, and are aware that a toothbrush needs to be changed; however, it is quite hard to tell when to change a toothbrush.
Rule #1: The dirt at the bottom of a toothbrush will accumulate slowly. Once discovering that toothbrush root’s color becomes dark, you need to replace it.
Rule #2: When the distance between bristles significantly widened or lose their shape, the toothbrush needs to be replaced. Dirt can now easily be accumulated which pollutes one’s mouth and can also cause bleeding or swollen gums. The toothbrush will also no longer be able to work efficiently under such conditions.
Rule #3: If you use your toothbrush while sick, the virus is likely to spread on to the toothbrush. Therefore, when the flu is cured, the toothbrush should be replaced in time to avoid secondary infection.
A toothbrush’s lifetime is usually considered to be 3-4 months. Changing toothbrushes at a good pace will allow you to have better oral health.
