Are you using the right toothbrush? How do you know if your brush is good for your teeth?

A high quality toothbrush is the basis of excellent daily oral care. With the right toothbrush, your teeth and gums stay healthy in the long run. But the most important thing to keep in mind is that not all toothbrushes are the same. Different people have different needs and preferences. Each has its own focal area.  For dental hygiene, look for  a toothbrush that fits your specific needs. So how do you choose a toothbrush that best fits you and your lifestyle?

Your dentist can tell you on the best tools tailored to your oral condition. But, in general, they may recommend using a soft toothbrush for a softer cleaning.

General Tips In Choosing A Toothbrush

There are several types of toothbrush you choose with certain features that you need to look for.

Size

The best toothbrush head for you should have easy access to all surfaces of your teeth. For most adults, a toothbrush head 0.5 inches wide and 1 inch long is the easiest and most effective. Larger toothbrush heads are also available. They can be difficult to clean in certain hard-to-reach areas, such as the sides and back of molars. The toothbrush must have a handle long enough to hold it in your hand.

Variety of Bristles

If you go to a pharmacy toothbrush, you can choose a nylon bristle soft, medium or hard toothbrush. For many people, a soft toothbrush is the safest and most comfortable option. Depending on how hard you brush, some brushes can damage the gums. They can also damage the root surface and protective tooth enamel. Make sure the bristles of the selected toothbrush are round. This is to enhance protection of your teeth while brushing.

Cost

There are some more affordable options for electric toothbrushes on the market. But electric toothbrushes are much more expensive than manual ones. You will need to replace the removable toothbrush head often. This, of course, is an added cost. But if you use an electric toothbrush to keep your teeth clean, you can save a lot by reducing your dental care costs.

Comfortability

The best toothbrush is the one that you like using often and is comfortable to use. Some people may not like the vibration of the electric toothbrush. Others may find it easier to use to clean the surface of the teeth. This is especially true for people with limited mobility, such as painful arthritis. If you like your toothbrush, you’re more likely to brush the recommended time of 2 minutes. Some types of electric brushes have a built-in timer that notifies you when there is enough time.

Efficiency

There are studies that investigate on brush is better at keeping teeth healthy. One study compared disposable and electric toothbrushes. Researchers found that there was generally no difference between electric and electric toothbrushes. Both kinds are effective in removing plaque and preventing gum disease.

Safety

All toothbrushes that are safe for use should have the ADA label. But some people are safer with certain types of toothbrushes. Brushing too hard can damage your gums and teeth. An electric toothbrush can be gentle on your gums and teeth while making it easier to clean them. Some studies show the downside of electric toothbrushes. They can increase the amount of bacteria in the mouth more than regular brushes. It is not a risk for a healthy person with a normal immune system and a healthy heart. This still needs further studies to determine if this is a concern.

Should I Choose A Manual Or An Electric Brush?

A study shows there is no difference between hand and electric toothbrushes. Both are effective in tooth cleaning and gum protection. For some people, an electric toothbrush can help clean all parts of your teeth more. Older people and people with arthritis may find them helpful. You can use an electric toothbrush with a rotating head to remove more plaque from your teeth. If you are prone to gingivitis, this type of toothbrush may be perfect for you. No matter which toothbrush you choose, make sure the handle is comfortable and easy to use.

When Should I Replace My Toothbrush?

A good toothbrush with all the right features can be a good start, but it doesn’t last forever. A worn toothbrush is less effective at keeping your teeth and gums clean. You will need to replace toothbrushes every 3 months. They are replaceable if the bristles are  stretched or frayed.

The next time you visit your dentist, ask your dentist to recommend a brush. Nothing beats a recommendation from a trusted expert!