Dentist reveals important reason

If you’ve been unsure about how often to replace your toothbrush, dental expert Dr. Joshua Perlman has the answer: every three months. He explained to the Daily Mail that it’s not just about cleanliness—over time, toothbrush bristles become worn out, frayed, and less effective at removing plaque, food, and bacteria from your teeth. When the bristles lose their shape, they can’t reach tight spaces between your teeth, which can lead to buildup and potential oral health issues like cavities and gum disease.

Dr. Perlman also advised replacing your toothbrush sooner if the bristles start to fray before three months, especially if you’re an aggressive brusher. Additionally, you should swap it out if it begins to smell, changes color, or after recovering from an illness, as bacteria can build up on the brush over time. So, if your toothbrush is looking worse for wear, it’s probably time for a fresh one.