How Often Should You Replace Your Toothbrush?
SmartSmile Team
Quick answer: replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. That's the American Dental Association's guidance. It works out to about 4 toothbrushes per person per year.
Signs it's time for a new brush
- Bristles are splayed, bent or flattened
- It's been about three months (put a date in your calendar or let us remind you)
- Your child has been chewing on it. Kids' brushes often wear out faster
Worn bristles don't clean as effectively, so an old brush can quietly undo two good minutes of brushing.
How many toothbrushes does a household need?
| People | Brushes per year (every 3 months) | A sensible pack |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4 | 5-pack (1 spare) |
| 2 | 8 | 10-pack |
| 4 | 16 | 2 × 10-pack |
| 6+ or guests | 24+ | 72-pack, our lowest price per brush |
Every SmartSmile brush is individually blister-packed, so a bigger pack keeps just fine until you need it.
How to store your toothbrush
- Rinse it well after brushing
- Store it upright and let it air-dry
- Don't keep it in a closed container while it's wet, and don't share toothbrushes
- Keep brushes apart so they don't touch
FAQ
Should I replace my toothbrush after being sick?
Many people do, and it's a reasonable habit, especially if the brush is near the end of its life anyway. Ask your dentist or doctor if you have specific concerns.
Do electric brush heads follow the same rule?
Generally yes. Replace heads on a similar schedule, or when the bristles wear.
Sources
- American Dental Association: Toothbrushes
- American Dental Association, MouthHealthy: Toothbrushes
