Old Mops & Toothbrushes?
If you ask someone when's the last time they changed their toothbrush and they say, "ummm"? It's been too long. Well, there you have it folks! One of the many tidbits of conventional wisdom heard within dental practice. It's hardly the likes of Plato, but rings true just the same. Throughout the day to day hustle and bustle, it's easy to forget such little things. So, as dental assistants and hygienists we periodically remind or ask patients this question. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends replacing our toothbrush every 3 to 4 months, sooner if the bristles have become frayed, and immediately after overcoming a cold, flu, oral infection, or sore throat. According to Colgate: Oral Health & Resource Center , "studies have shown that after 3 months of normal wear and tear, toothbrushes are much less effective at removing plaque." Toothbrush bristles wear down over time, and unable to reach into the nooks and crevices around our te
