5 Things Your Toothbrush Is Trying To Tell You

Kids, did you know that your toothbrush can speak? Yes, it’s a special language that only good dentists can understand. I am Dr. Yury Slepak, and I’d like to share with you a few secrets that your toothbrush has been trying to tell you. It can tell if you’ve been brushing too hard or not enough. It can tell you when it’s gotten too old and needs to be replaced. And it can even tell when you’re eating too much sugar.

Here is how you too can understand your toothbrush.

Worn Bristles

A toothbrush’s lifespan is about 3 months. After 3 months most toothbrushes become too old to use. You’ll know it’s too old because the bristles will stick out in different directions. The bristles of your toothbrush should remain straight, stiff, and strong, so that they can brush your teeth properly. To help you remember to change your toothbrush after 3 months, every time you get a new toothbrush ask your Mommy or Daddy to write the date on the handle!

If the bristles become frayed in just a few weeks, your toothbrush is probably telling you that you’re brushing too hard or using incorrect motions. Ask your dentist to show you how to brush your teeth and tongue correctly.

Hard Bristles

You should always use a soft toothbrush to brush your teeth. Gentle bristles do a better job at cleaning dental plaque, and they won’t irritate the gums. A hard toothbrush can harm your gums and teeth’s enamel. However, because of the material used to make toothbrush bristles, they tend to become hard with use. Another sign that you need a new toothbrush is that the bristles become too hard.

The Bristles Are Tinted Red

If your toothbrush is tinted red or pink after you brush, it might be a sign that your gums are unhealthy. Unless you’ve eaten a red or pink candy or drunk a sugary beverage, if your toothbrush is tinted pink or red, most likely it’s telling you that your gums are bleeding. Bleeding gums can be a sign of gingivitis. It may be because you are not brushing your teeth often or thoroughly enough. Or, maybe you’re forgetting to floss. Your toothbrush might be telling you that you need to spend more time together. Talk to your dentist to figure it out.

The Bristles Are Tinted Another Strange Color

If upon brushing, you discover the bristles strangely tinted, your toothbrush may be telling you to consume less sugar. Candy residue can linger on your teeth and cause tooth decay. Sugary candies often contain artificial colors and dyes, which can stain the surfaces of the teeth. Drink more water to wash away leftover food particles. Brush diligently. And limit the amount of sweets.

Your Toothbrush Is Stinky

If your toothbrush has an unpleasant odor, it’s telling you, “Take better care of me!” Get a new toothbrush. Take care of it by rinsing it thoroughly under water before and after you brush. Store it upright and allow it to dry. Brush and store at least three feet away from the toilet, since every time you flush, the toilet sprays bacteria, which you don’t want anywhere near your mouth or toothbrush.

I am Dr. Yury Slepak, and I am known as the best kids dentist in Brooklyn. Call today to schedule your appointment: 718.998.2424. Our office is located at 2464 Coney Island Ave Brooklyn NY. I look forward to seeing you!