Does the Right Toothbrush Really Matter?
When it comes to selecting the right toothbrush, there are so many things to consider. It can be overwhelming.
However, choosing a toothbrush doesn’t need to be a stressful endeavor. This guide will help you consider the most important things to look for in a toothbrush, what is up to personal preference, and what dentists say are the best toothbrush characteristics to look out for.
How to Select the Right Toothbrush
When it comes to selecting the right toothbrush for you, there are a few things to take into consideration, such as the size, shape, hardness of bristles, the material, and whether it’s electric or manual.
When it comes to choosing the head of your toothbrush, the shape is up to personal preference but the size should ideally be small. This makes brushing into hard-to-reach crevices at the back of the mouth much easier. Selecting a large head size can mean there isn’t enough room to thoroughly brush all of the grooves of the teeth.
Bristle firmness is extremely important, as you should only be brushing your teeth with a soft bristle toothbrush. While it might seem like hard bristles will provide a better clean, they aren’t more effective at cleaning your teeth and they are too abrasive which can damage your tooth enamel.
You can also choose the pattern of your brush, such as a wavy or flat pattern. When the bristles are all at different heights (wavy) they are more effective at grasping the surfaces of the teeth and cleaning the hard-to-reach areas.
When it comes to choosing between electric and manual, this is up to personal preference. Electric toothbrushes make brushing simple and convenient but they’re also more expensive and a hassle to replace batteries and toothbrush heads.
Studies have shown that rotating-oscillating electric toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque from the teeth than manual brushes. However, this may be because people are more likely to brush thoroughly and long enough when the electric toothbrush does most of the work for them. A manual toothbrush can be just as good at cleaning the teeth.
What Really Matters When Selecting a Toothbrush
The most important factors in selecting a toothbrush are the firmness of the bristles and what you will be willing to use to brush your teeth twice a day for 2 to 3 minutes in gentle circular motions. Hard bristles cause enamel erosion and should be avoided.
If an electric toothbrush works best for you because manual toothbrushes are too much work, then you should get an electric toothbrush. However, if an electric toothbrush is out of your price range and you find that you’re able to clean your teeth just as well with a manual one, then that’s what will work best for you.
The most important thing is that you brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes every single day. It’s best to floss before you brush your teeth so no food particles are lingering in the mouth overnight.
If you have a child, then let them be involved in the toothbrush selection process. If they choose a toothbrush that’s in a color or a pattern that they like, they’re more likely to want to use it. Let your child have some fun when it comes to choosing their toothbrush. Forming a positive association with oral hygiene is important.
Dentist Recommendations
Dentists hand out manual toothbrushes for free because they are affordable, accessible, and easy to use. They can perform the same job as an electric toothbrush if used properly for the proper length of time.
However, for those with a higher risk of cavities or gum disease, or have physical limitations like a lack of dexterity or a general disdain for brushing your teeth, then an electric toothbrush will help you maintain your oral hygiene by making it easier for you to thoroughly clean your teeth with less effort.
Expert Dental Advice At Landman Dentistry by the Lake
Whether you need help selecting the right toothbrush, learning how to brush properly, or how you can prevent tooth decay and gum disease, we’re here to help. Contact us at Landman Dentistry by the Lake today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Landman.