How often should we get a new toothbrush for our six year old? our dentist always gives us a new one at each visit every six months, but our daughter seems to be really rough on them. i think it might be because she brushes much harder than she needs to.

Toothbrushes : Toothbrushes are most effective when they are new. Some brushes such as oral-b have an indicator on them to tell you when to replace them. Proper use of the brush will prolong its use.

As : As a general rule, i would agree with changing your toothbrush, regardless of your age, approximately every 6 months. If she is hard on her toothbrush, i would suggest that you have her show you how she brushes, or even better, have her demonstrate how she brushes to her dentist on her next visit. She might be biting on her toothbrush or using too much force.It might also depend upon what brand of toothbrush she uses or how hard the bristles are.

There : There is no correct "time" when to change a brush. Bristles have to me straight. If they are bent, change the brush.

You : You are right on track. Your daughter is brushing too hard. I am sure that the brush your dentist is giving you for her is a multitufted round ended fine fibered soft nylon brush, perfect, but able to be bent over with rough use. Ask the hygienist to refine her home care technique, and until then yes buy her a new brush as soon as the bristles are bent over. Power brushes are very good for children. They have to learn the technique. That might be an opportunity the refine the brushing technique. The toothbrush sales industry has persuaded dentist to tell their patients to replace the brushes every 3 months. Good luck dr neil mcleod dds dentistry that lasts - quality that counts.