When you walk through the dental care aisle, you’ll have dozens of choices when picking a toothbrush. But does it actually matter which toothbrush you choose? We’ve answered some common questions about toothbrushes so you can choose the best brush for you!
Soft, Medium, or Hard Bristles?
As a rule, toothbrushes with soft bristles are a better choice. For the vast majority of people, soft bristles will provide the best cleaning action. Soft bristles are gentle on your gums and on the enamel of your teeth, unlike hard bristled toothbrushes which can cause bleeding if too much pressure is applied.
This also makes soft bristles a great choice for toothbrushes if you’re wearing braces, as they won’t put excessive pressure on metal brackets.
Medium and hard bristles, however, are much less common in stores, as they can cause serious injury to your mouth if you over brush. They should be avoided.
What Are The Best Toothbrushes For Babies?
If you’re brushing the teeth of an infant, you should look for a specialized infant toothbrush. These toothbrushes have very soft bristles and large handles, making it easier for you to maneuver them, and for younger children to get used to brushing on their own.
Toothbrush Size And Shape
The size and shape of your toothbrush is mostly a matter of personal preference. However, it’s generally recommended to choose a brush with a smaller head, regardless of shape. It’ll give you more control, and allow you to brush hard-to-reach areas, like the back of your molars, where a larger toothbrush head may not fit.
Toothbrush Material
Toothbrushes come in a wide variety of materials, most commonly ABS plastics, rubber, and other artificial materials. However, some companies have released wooden and bamboo toothbrushes, leaving patients wondering what the best material is to use.
This is also a matter of preference. If you would like to be environmentally friendly and use a biodegradable brush, a wooden or bamboo toothbrush is a fine choice. Otherwise, a traditional plastic toothbrush is totally acceptable.
Electric Vs. Manual
If you’re looking to invest in your oral care, an electric toothbrush is a great choice. While manual toothbrushes are highly effective at removing plaque and bacteria, electric toothbrushes certainly have an edge.
A study conducted in 2013 showed that electric toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque and preventing gum disease. When choosing an electric toothbrush, pick one with a good oscillating motion, and a small, rounded head with soft bristles. Be sure to look for the ADA seal of approval!
Need Toothbrush Advice? Teeth Cleaning? Cosmetic Dentistry? Come To Brett Blacher, DDS Today!
From family and cosmetic dentistry to advanced laser dentistry, and more, your local Lombard dentist, Dr. Brett Blacher, DDS and his team will take excellent care of you! Call us today at 630.916.0701 to schedule an appointment.
We look forward to seeing you!
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