🪥 When Should You Replace Your Toothbrush? Most people don’t think twice about their toothbrush — until it starts looking like it wrestled with a lion. But the truth is, replacing your toothbrush regularly is one of the easiest ways to protect your oral health . 🗓️ How Often Should You Replace It? The American Dental Association recommends switching your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months — or sooner if the bristles are frayed. Why? Because worn bristles can’t clean your teeth as effectively and may even irritate your gums. 🔁 Other Times You Should Replace It: After you’ve been sick (cold, flu, COVID, strep throat) If your toothbrush has been dropped or exposed to a dirty surface If the bristles are splayed or flattened If your child starts chewing on it (they all do!) If your electric toothbrush head shows signs of wear 👎 What Happens If You Don’t? Old toothbrushes don’t just clean less — they can harbor bacteria, fungi, and other things you don’t want near your mouth. Plus, using worn bristles can wear away enamel or damage gums over time. ✅ Pro Tips from Garden City Dentistry: Store your toothbrush upright and allow it to air dry Don’t cover it with a cap for long periods — trapped moisture = bacteria Use soft-bristled brushes (they’re safest for enamel and gums) Set a reminder in your phone or replace it with the seasons (every 3 months = 4 per year) Time for a New Brush? If your brush looks tired — it probably is. And if you’re unsure what kind of toothbrush is best for you (manual, electric, soft bristles, etc.), our team at Garden City Dentistry is happy to help!
🪥 Are Electric Toothbrushes Worth It? Short answer? Yes. At Garden City Dentistry, we often recommend electric toothbrushes because they help patients clean their teeth more thoroughly — especially those who struggle with brushing technique, dexterity, or motivation. But let’s break it down... Why We Recommend Electric Toothbrushes Electric toothbrushes do more than just buzz — they’re engineered to: ✅ Remove more plaque than manual brushing ✅ Help prevent gum disease ✅ Make brushing easier for kids, seniors, or people with limited hand movement ✅ Encourage consistent brushing with built-in timers ✅ Reduce the risk of brushing too hard (some even alert you!) If you’ve ever been told you're missing spots or brushing too aggressively, switching to electric could make a big difference. Manual vs. Electric: What’s the Real Difference? A manual brush works great — if you're using proper technique for two full minutes, twice a day. That’s a big “if” for most people. Electric toothbrushes take a lot of the guesswork out. They move faster, more evenly, and apply just the right amount of pressure — making up for small mistakes in brushing habits. Are They Safe for Sensitive Teeth? Absolutely. Many models come with gentle settings and soft bristles specifically designed for patients with sensitive gums, recent dental work, or enamel concerns. Just ask our team — we’ll help you find the best one for your needs. Do Kids Benefit from Electric Toothbrushes? Yes! Many children actually enjoy brushing more when they use a fun, powered brush with a timer or music. It helps build healthy habits early — and we all know that’s half the battle. What Should You Look for in an Electric Toothbrush? Not all electric toothbrushes are created equal. Look for features like: Soft bristles Built-in 2-minute timer Pressure sensors Rechargeable battery (vs. disposable) Oscillating or sonic technology Brands like Oral-B and Philips Sonicare are frequently recommended by dentists — and with good reason.