Which Type of Toothbrush Is Best?

Here’s what you should keep in mind when going shopping for your next toothbrush.

Pay Attention to Bristle Type

When asked, a majority of dentists and hygiene professionals will say that a toothbrush with soft bristles is best. You might think that medium or hard bristles would be better at removing plaque and food particles. However, soft bristles can thoroughly clean teeth when used for 2 minutes and are gentler on gums and enamel.

Depending on your situation, our dentists may recommend you seek out stiffer bristles. Otherwise, it is wise to only purchase soft toothbrushes so you don’t cause unnecessary damage.

Electric vs. Manual Toothbrushes

You’ve probably heard this debate before but weren’t sure whether electric or manual is better. The truth is, either one is perfectly acceptable. Both electric and manual toothbrushes can reduce plaque build-up and keep gums healthy when proper brushing technique is used.

Powered toothbrushes do have one advantage over their traditional counterparts, however. For those who brush too hard or have limited mobility, electric toothbrushes allow for a gentle, easy cleaning. Some brushes of this type even have built-in timers to let you know when 2 minutes have passed which many patients find helpful. 

The decision is ultimately up to you. Picking the type of toothbrush that you like using will make your oral hygiene routine that much more enjoyable.

Choose a Brush Head and Handle That Work for You

The top of a toothbrush, or the head, can come in different sizes with various types of handles to grip. Our dentists may recommend that you look for a certain toothbrush design so that all teeth are properly cleaned.

Small-headed brushes, for example, are effective at reaching all areas in your mouth, like your back molars. Patterned or tapered bristles on a brush head also can impact your cleaning experience. Generally, a smaller brush head is the safest choice. 

Toothbrush handles can play an important role as well. If using your hands is more difficult due to arthritis or a disability, an angled, non-slip, or flexible handle could prove useful. A handle can also feature different colors or pleasing designs so choose what suits you best.

When to Change Out Your Brush

Sometimes you get so used to cleaning with a toothbrush that you lose track of how old it is. A good rule of thumb to follow is to change it out after 3 months. The same goes for a powered brush head. 

Take note of the month when you buy the toothbrush or replaceable head. Remembering the date can help you plan months out and know when to retire your old toothbrush. You should also pick up a new toothbrush when:

• There are signs of wear and tear, like frayed or bent bristles.
• You’ve recently recovered from a cold. Germs could still be present and lead to reinfection.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste

Selecting a good toothbrush is great news for the health of your teeth and gums. It’s even better if you use your new toothbrush in conjunction with a fluoride toothpaste. 

Fluoride is a safe mineral that works to prevent the onset of tooth decay by slowing down the breakdown of enamel and speeding up the rate of your body’s natural remineralization process. Plaque that forms on teeth can produce acids capable of weakening enamel. Toothpastes, drinking water, or topical treatments containing fluoride can help strengthen your enamel and make teeth less susceptible to cavities.

There are many different types of fluoride toothpaste to choose from. One thing you’ll notice when looking at options in the store aisle is an ADA Seal. This seal of acceptance is courtesy of the American Dental Association and means that the product has been deemed safe and effective. As long as it has the seal, it has fluoride! 

Schedule Your Next Cleaning Today

Maintaining good oral hygiene at home is important and when you’re brushing your teeth at least twice a day, you want the right tool. Our dentists in Cadillac, MI, would be more than happy to give you advice on which toothbrush to choose at your next teeth cleaning. Call LifeSmiles Dentistry today at (231) 775-8281 to request an appointment.