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We all know how important dental hygiene is. A good oral care routine will help prevent gum disease, cavities, and even tooth loss. Avoiding gum disease is also key in maintaining the health of your other bodily systems, and who doesn’t want their pearly whites to sparkle? An essential part of an everyday oral care routine is brushing your teeth, but it’s important to ensure you choose the right kind of toothbrush for your individual needs.
Toothbrushes have evolved over many centuries, and we’ve come a long way from the flayed twigs found in Egyptian tombs from 3000 BC. 1780 saw the first construct of what we know as the modern toothbrush, and with the invention of nylon in the 1930’s, we were well on our way to the softer bristles of today. In fact, we have so many options available to us now, that it can be overwhelming to make a decision on which type is best for you. Simply Smiles has come up with some guidelines for you to consider to help you make the right choice for your mouth:
- Should you go with a manual brush, or electric?
While many dentists recommend electric toothbrushes because of the fast rotations of the head that can remove plaque more efficiently, studies have shown that there is no real difference in the effectiveness of either brush type, as long as they are used correctly. Electric toothbrushes are useful for those with mobility issues, many come with timers to let you know how long to brush, and they can help you avoid brushing your teeth too hard. Manual toothbrushes however, are more cost effective and can work just as well. It ultimately comes down to which type best suits your needs, comfort level, and financial situation.
- Choose your bristle wisely.
It’s a common misconception that medium or hard bristles work better to clean teeth. This is almost always the wrong choice, and soft bristles are the way to go. Soft bristles are just as efficient at removing plaque as harder bristles, while also protecting your gums and teeth. Brushing too vigorously, especially with a hard- bristled brush, can wear away your tooth enamel and cause receding gum lines. No one wants that!
- Decide what size of brush head you need.
You should ideally choose a toothbrush size that fits easily into your mouth and feels comfortable. A smaller toothbrush head will allow you to get to the more difficult to reach areas like your molars, and a rounded toothbrush head will prevent you from having to contend with angles.
- Make sure your brush has the ADA seal of acceptance.
If you see the American Dental Association seal on a toothbrush, it means the brush has been verified by experts on the brush’s safety and effectiveness. ADA acceptance often exceeds other standards of approval.
- Determine what you need in a handle grip.
Find a handle that provides a comfortable grip to allow for better control and maneuverability while brushing. They even make handles available for every situation, such as angled, non-slip grip, or a flexible-neck handle.
- Pick your favorite color!
We saved the best for last – pick a brush in your favorite color and you might find that it adds a little fun to your oral routine!
Now that you know what to look for in a toothbrush, we can’t stress enough the importance of actually using it. No fancy, colorful toothbrush is going to help your teeth if you don’t use it properly. You should be brushing for two minutes, twice a day. It’s also important to replace your toothbrush regularly, about every three months, or when you start to see noticeable wear. If you still feel you need help finding the perfect brush, contact our office at Simply Smiles and we’d love to help connect you with the perfect options for your smile.
Sources:
https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/selecting-dental-products/choosing-the-right-toothbrush#
https://www.goldenstatedentistry.com/blog/how-to-choose-a-toothbrush
https://www.drdena.com/post/how-to-choose-the-right-toothbrush.html
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/choosing-a-toothbrush-the-pros-and-cons-of-electric-and-disposable
https://www.pickettfamilydental.com/blog/ultimate-guide-to-selecting-the-right-toothbrush/