THE AMERICAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION STRONGLY SUGGESTS that we replace our toothbrushes every 3–4 months for maximum effectiveness.
Know When To Say Goodbye
Take a close look at your child’s toothbrush bristles. Are they frayed? Smashed? Discolored? Kinda gross? It’s time for a new toothbrush. If your child is brushing correctly (gently), the signs of a less effective toothbrush may be less visible. That’s why it’s important to mark your calendar! After a few months, you child may start noticing that although your brushing routine hasn’t changed, your teeth just don’t feel as clean. When bristles become slanted and curved it prevents them from reaching where they need to—around the gum line and between teeth. Bristles also lose their elasticity, keeping them from achieving an important gentle-sweeping movement. Research also shows worn toothbrushes don’t reduce plaque as well as a new ones.
Turn Your Old Toothbrush Into A Playground!
TerraCycle® and Colgate® have partnered to create the Colgate Oral Care Brigade®, a free recycling program for oral care product packaging and a fundraising opportunity for participants. [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6R6eymPsyq0?rel=0&w=543&h=315]
Teach Your Child To Take Good Care Of Their New Toothbrush
- Rinse the toothbrush thoroughly after each use.
- Don’t store it in a closed container. Allow it to air-dry.
- Don’t share your toothbrush with others.
- Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months!
Wondering About The Cool Toothbrush Image Above?
At the top of this blog post, there’s a closeup photo of a giant disco ball that was constructed to bring awareness to toothbrush recycling: [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APWZPQyYdr8?rel=0&w=543&h=315]
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Together, by sharing great information, we provide value and make small differences in our children’s health and in their lives. We appreciate having you and your child as part of our practice family!
