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5 Signs You Need a New Toothbrush

Afro-American woman brushing teeth in front of the bathroom mirror.

You rely on your toothbrush twice a day to clean your teeth. However, if you’ve neglected to replace your toothbrush when it needed, your oral hygiene efforts may be falling short. In some cases, a neglected toothbrush could be doing more harm than good. Regardless of the type of toothbrush you use or the stage of life you are in, it is important to recognize when your toothbrush has reached the end of its lifespan.

Here are 5 signs that you need to purchase a new toothbrush and throw your old one away:

#1 Your Toothbrush Has Frayed Bristles
If the head of your manual or electric toothbrush has bristles that are frayed, bent or broken, it is time to get a replacement. You can’t rely on a worn-out toothbrush to clean your teeth and gums properly. If you are brushing too hard these frayed bristles may happen sooner than the three-month mark.
#2 Your Teeth Don’t Feel Clean After Brushing
If you are confident in your brushing technique but fail to get that smooth and fresh feeling across your pearly whites after you use your toothbrush for two minutes, you may need to buy a new one. The removal of plaque, bacteria and food debris requires a well-functioning toothbrush.
#3 You’ve Been Sick
Most of our germs live in our mouths. If you have recently had a virus or other sickness, those germs likely migrated onto your toothbrush. To avoid re-infecting yourself every time you brush, we recommend replacing your toothbrush to stay healthy.
#4 Your Brush has a Foul Odor
It can generally be said that if something smells bad, it probably shouldn’t go in your mouth. A stinky toothbrush could be an indication of mold or bacterial growth. Treat yourself to a new one!
#5 You Can’t Remember When You Last Replaced It
A dentist will suggest replacing your toothbrush every 2-3 months, or when the seasons change (if that helps you remember). If you can’t recall when you last bought a toothbrush, it is probably time to part ways with your beloved oral hygiene tool.

At Peninsula Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, we help patients appreciate the role their toothbrush has towards their dental health and overall well-being. Are you giving it the TLC it needs to do its job? Call our Charleston dental clinic today to learn more about easy ways to maximize your dental hygiene routine at home.

Posted on behalf of Peninsula Cosmetic & Family Dentistry

538 Savannah Hwy
Charleston, SC 29407

Phone: (843) 507-5481

FAX: (843) 577-4653

Email:

Monday - Thursday 8am - 5pm
Lunch break: 1pm - 2pm

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Our Patients Reviews

Absolutely phenomenal dental office. Not only are the dentists outstanding at their craft but, like every person in the office, they are incredibly friendly and genuine. And that is so important. I earnestly recommend Peninsula if you are looking for the highest quality care, expertise and, equally important, quality people. I would give them 10 stars if I could.
Matthew W. L.
The BEST dentist. Megan the hygienist is always so professional and thorough! Every time I have a visit here the staff from the front desk to back are always so efficient and courteous. Dr. McPherson is an amazing dentist and always takes time to explain everything in a way that makes sense. I will only go to Peninsula for all my dental needs!
Dana M.
Excellent staff and excellent experience from entering until leaving. Dr. McPherson is terrific!! Her assistant Kate is very knowledgeable and caring. I felt like I had two dentist attending to me. This was my first visit to this practice. I’ll always remain a patient due to my experience
John C.

Meet Our Doctors

Dr. James B. Wisner

Dr. James B. Wisner was raised in Charleston and attended Porter-Gaud High School. He graduated from The Honors College at The University of South Carolina in 1996 and received his D.M.D. degree in 2002 from the Medical University of South Carolina’s College of Dental Medicine.

Dr. Wisner served in Las Vegas, Nevada and Spangdahlem, Germany as a Captain in the United States Air Force for three years where he completed an AEGD residency and was certified in Intravenous Conscious Sedation.

Dr. Caitlin McPherson

Dr. Caitlin McPherson was born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina. A graduate of Porter Gaud High School, she went on to receive her Bachelors of Science from Clemson University’s Calhoun Honors College. Dr. McPherson earned her Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina’s College of Dental Medicine. She is an active member of The American Dental Association and The Academy of General Dentistry.

Dr. McPherson performs all aspects of general dentistry and is Invisalign certified. Dr. McPherson especially enjoys treating pediatric patients.

Dr. Luke E. Severance

Dr. Luke E. Severance believes dentistry goes far beyond just treating teeth – it’s about building lasting relationships and making a genuine difference in the lives of his patients.

Dr. Severance was raised in Florence, South Carolina and graduated with summa cum laude from the University of South Carolina. He went on to receive his Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina and attended a General Practice Residency in Columbia, SC. At Prisma Health Richland Hospital in Columbia, he extended his knowledge and expertise in various areas from IV Moderate Sedation, Implant Surgery, CEREC Same-Day Crowns, Digital Dentistry, Pediatric Dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, and Extractions including Wisdom Teeth. He understands a dental visit can be fearful for some and his goal is to alleviate this fear by going above and beyond the need to help each person feel comfortable and cared for.

Outside the dental office, Dr. Severance enjoys spending time with his family and friends, fishing, hiking, playing soccer, watching the Gamecocks, and staying active in his church and community. Even in his free time, he studies the latest dental technology and attends dental seminars to stay up to date with the latest industry trends for delivering cutting edge dental treatments to all his patients. He is devoted to helping patients achieve optimal oral health and confident smiles which will positively impact their systemic and mental health.

Dr. Luke E. Severance

Address

538 Savannah Hwy
Charleston, SC 29407

Phone (843) 507-5481
Fax (843) 577-4653
Email

Opening Hours

Monday - Thursday 8am - 5pm
Lunch break: 1pm - 2pm

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