New research shows 40 per cent of Aussies are ignoring professional advice and failing to change their toothbrush every 3 months, in line with the Australian Dental Association’s recommendation.
The 2024 study commissioned by Colgate surveyed 1,000 people across Australia. It showed younger people were holding onto their toothbrush longest, with 47 per cent of people aged 25-34 years and 45 per cent of those 18-24 years keeping their toothbrush for over three months.
The survey also revealed the top state adhering to the recommendation is Tasmania, with 72 percent changing their toothbrush quarterly, and ACT only at 46 per cent.
Toothbrush bristles can harbour bacteria and become frayed and worn over time, which significantly diminishes their cleaning effectiveness. “Using an old toothbrush is like trying to clean your floors with a worn-out broom,” says Dr Mikaela Chinotti, Australian Dental Association (ADA) Oral Health Promoter, proudly supported by Colgate . “You just won’t get the same level of cleanliness, and in the case of oral hygiene, this can lead to a buildup of plaque, which can cause tooth decay and other oral health issues.”
“It is important to keep your toothbrush dry, ideally stored where it will get plenty of air flow and change it regularly. I always change mine on the first day of a season, that’s just the way I remember,” Dr Chinotti adds.
Dr Susan Cartwright, former dentist turned Colgate Expert Educator, highlights that changing your toothbrush regularly is not only about maintaining oral hygiene but also about investing in overall health. “A clean, effective toothbrush is a powerful tool in your health arsenal. We want everyone to understand that this simple change every three months can make a significant difference.”
So, don’t drag this out. It’s time to part ways with an old toothbrush and welcome a new one. Dental professionals put emphasis on changing a toothbrush every three months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. A fresh toothbrush means a healthier mouth and a happier outlook.
Take the first step towards a new dental relationship today, and find the perfect match with the Colgate manual toothbrush range; available at all major retailers and chemists nationally including Woolworths, Coles, Amazon and Chemist Warehouse.
Key Facts:
Number of people surveyed:
1,000 Australians nationally
Respondents:
49 per cent male
51 per cent female
Results:
40% have kept their toothbrush for more than three months
Changing toothbrush habits by state:
TAS | NT | QLD | NSW | WA | VIC | SA | ACT | |
More than 1 year or don’t recall | 17% | 0% | 10% | 10% | 14% | 11% | 11% | 18% |
Over three months but less than 1 year | 11% | 33% | 26% | 28% | 30% | 33% | 33% | 36% |
Three months or less | 72% | 67% | 64% | 62% | 57% | 56% | 56% | 46% |
Changing toothbrush habits by age:
18-24 years | 25-34 years | 35-44 years | 45-54 years | 55-64 years | 65+ years | |
More than 1 year or don’t recall | 19% | 15% | 9% | 9% | 5% | 10% |
Over three months but less than 1 year | 26% | 32% | 32% | 29% | 27% | 30% |
Three months or less | 55% | 53% | 59% | 62% | 68% | 60% |
About us:
Colgate is a global leader in oral care and the #1 Oral Care brand in Australia. For over 200 years, Colgate has provided innovative oral care products. Colgate is part of the Colgate-Palmolive organisation.
