Normally we are told a toothbrush should replaced every three months to ensure maximum effectiveness in its removal of bacterial plaque (oral biofilm) and food debris. Being familiar with the wide assortment of toothbrush designs available allows pharmacists to recommend the most suitable option for each case. 

The toothbrush is a basic oral hygiene tool, as it plays a very important dual role through its physical sweeping action during daily brushing: it controls oral biofilm (bacterial plaque) and removes food debris that remains in the mouth after meals. Hence, the importance of replacing it regularly, so that it can perform both tasks effectively. And over time and after continuous use, brush filaments lose their effectiveness and can damage oral tissues, on top of the fact that they provide the ideal environment for bacterial growth. 

After using the same toothbrush for three months, and sometimes even sooner, its filaments tend to deteriorate and spread outward toward the brush head, making them less resistant and effective. In this state, they are not able to successfully perform their function, and it is more complicated to access hard-to-reach areas because of the deformed filaments. The end result may even be harmful, because they may wear teeth down or damage gums.

Toothbrush filaments may also represent an ideal environment for the growth of bacteria, fungi and other germs, especially when the environment is moist and poorly ventilated. Even though their accumulation and development is inevitable, they can be kept at bay. 

KEEP BRUSH IN GOOD CONDITION 

Pharmacies can help customers keep their toothbrush in optimum condition, by giving them advice. First, after brushing teeth, they are advised to rinse their brush with hot water and then to shake or dry it to remove any excess water. To protect the brush head and filaments from the environment, they are also told to always use a protective cap, which should have holes to allow air to pass through to minimise moisture between filaments. 

It is also important that they store their toothbrush in an upright position, not only so that it can dry well, but so that it does not come into contact with surfaces that may have bacteria. And although many people choose to store their toothbrush in a cup or glass holder, it is particularly important that it does not touch other toothbrushes when stored together in the same place, in order to avoid cross contamination. 

Customers who visit the pharmacy must be reminded that even if their toothbrush may look like it is in good condition, it must be replaced after about three months of use, as the accumulation of bacteria may be excessive. However, this is an approximate period of time which, in some cases, can be much shorter. This is what happens after having had an infectious illness, such as a cold or the flu, as the germs may stay in the brush and cause a relapse. 

Children also tend to wear toothbrush filaments more quickly than normal, because they tend to brush irregularly, and so parents must check toothbrush conditions regularly. The same happens to patients with braces or those who brush their teeth vigorously: as filaments deteriorate more rapidly, these patients need to replace their brush more often. 

TIPS TO ENSURE OPTIMUM TOOTHBRUSH EFFECTIVENESS 

• A brush should be replaced at the first signs of wear: worn or spreading filaments. Microbial contamination is greater in brushes whose filaments are damaged or very used. 

• A toothbrush needs to be thoroughly cleaned after every use to remove food debris and bacteria that could spread around the filaments. 

• It is also important to make sure it is as dry as possible when stored, to prevent bacteria from spreading due to moisture. 

• It must be stored in an upright position so that it can air out, with the cap on and placed so that it does not touch other brushes. 

FEATURES OF VITIS^® TOOTHBRUSHES 

Not only is it important to periodically replace a toothbrush, but it is also very important to choose the right brush. The quality and features of VITIS^® brushes make them unique and the best option: 

• High quality Tynex^® filaments. These minimise moisture retention and dry quickly to prevent the accumulation of bacteria or other microorganisms. They are arranged in a wavy surface pattern or in a V-shape pattern to facilitate access to the interproximal area, or in a flat surface pattern to protect delicate gums. They have textured and rounded ends that protect teeth and gums. 

• Monotip area. Area of the brush head that is aimed at disrupting the most resistant dental biofilm thanks to the more compact distribution of its filaments. 

• Cap. It is designed with an insertion rail so that filaments can dry freely without touching the cap's inner sides. Its holes allow air to circulate freely, minimising the formation of bacterial colonies by preventing moisture retention. 

• Head. The rounded shape and the size of the VITIS^® brush heads optimise brushing technique, facilitating access to the most hard-to-reach areas (posterior areas). There are two sizes from which to choose: normal and small (access). 

• Neck. Because the material is flexible and pliable, it can protect teeth and gums from excessive pressure during brushing, by bending and twisting to acquire the desired form and to suit the needs of each user's mouth. It is also greatly resistant, preventing the brush from breaking during use. 

• Handle. Anatomical and flexible, the anti-slip grip area makes it easy to use by preventing slippage during brushing.