The NHS has issued a warning to people that they could be risking an infection on a daily basis and not know it. Alerting people to the mistake online, the health service cautions people to replace their toothbrush regularly.
Written on an website, it notes that you need to "change your toothbrush every three months when possible". You should opt for a small or medium brush head as these are ideal for reaching all parts of your mouth.
By simply changing your toothbrush every three months, "these actions will help to remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth which can cause tooth decay and gum disease", the NHS explains.
In fact, according to: "Other risks and issues involved with not replacing your toothbrush often enough include damage to your gums, inability to remove plaque from your teeth properly or gingivitis. Gingivitis can lead to infection, which can cause your teeth to fall out."
As well as brushing your teeth twice a day, the continues by saying that when it comes to toothpaste, you should look out for specific types. They urge: "Use a pea-sized amount of a fluoride toothpaste containing 1350 to 1500ppm of fluoride (you can find out this information on the back of the tube of toothpaste)."
In a further handy tip, they suggest: "After brushing your teeth, spit out the toothpaste but don’t rinse your mouth. This lets the fluoride in the toothpaste stay on your teeth or longer, helping to make them stronger."
Do I have gum disease?
Symptoms of gum disease include:
Gum disease can lead to:
See a dentist if:
Don't forget to floss and "tilt the bristle tips towards the gum line at 45 degrees." By using small, circular movements or vibrations, this will help keep your teeth clean and reduce the risk of infection.
They conclude: "Brush the outsides, insides and chewing surfaces of your teeth, brushing each tooth surface for five seconds. Brushing your teeth should take two to three minutes total."
