Choosing the Right Toothbrush

If you have visited the oral health aisle at your local supermarket, chances are you were overwhelmed by the amount of choices you have when it comes to selecting a toothbrush. Choosing the right toothbrush for you should come down to comfort and ease of use. It’s not so much about the type of toothbrush you use, but whether you will use it everyday to keep your teeth clean and healthy. ABC Dental wants you to understand the important of choosing the right toothbrush and we hope this information in helpful.

There are numerous choices out there when it comes to toothbrushes including power brushes, battery-operated toothbrushes and a plethora of manual toothbrushes. Which kind you use is entirely up to you, but you should consider your specific dental needs when selecting your toothbrush.

Manual Toothbrushes

Manual toothbrushes come in a variety of shapes and sizes with varying degrees of bristle softness. Seek out a toothbrush with a comfortable handle a brush head size that fits comfortably in your mouth. Make sure you can easily reach your back teeth with the toothbrush. Experiment with bristle softness to find the brush that gets your teeth the most clean without irritating your gums.

Some people who are diligent about their dental care prefer to use manual toothbrushes, and that is perfectly fine. Others find the size of manual toothbrushes a bit too large for comfort, and opt for small or even child-sized toothbrushes. Use whatever is most comfortable for you that allows you to brush all the surfaces of your teeth.

Power Toothbrushes

Power toothbrushes—the kind that comes with a wall charger and rechargeable battery—have numerous benefits over manual toothbrushes. The brush heads are replaceable, and generally rotate during use to clean teeth and stimulate gums. The brush heads are also smaller, allowing you to reach those back teeth regularly. Most power toothbrushes also include timers indicating when you have brushed for two minutes.

Power toothbrushes are more expensive than manual toothbrushes, and the heads should be replaced just as often. Some people find it difficult to use a power toothbrush, and would prefer to use a manual toothbrush. With proper use, both types of toothbrushes are effective.

Battery-Powered Toothbrushes

In recent years battery-operated toothbrushes have grown in popularity, and there are several options available today. These toothbrushes stimulate gums with vibration, but may not be as effective as power toothbrushes with specialized rotating heads. Battery-powered toothbrushes are only slightly higher cost than manual toothbrushes, and are a good alternative for those who are not ready for a power toothbrush. There are several battery-powered toothbrushes available for kids, and they may encourage better brushing habits if it is fun to use.

How to Care for Your Toothbrush

You should replace your toothbrush head every three to four months, or whenever the bristles begin to look damaged. After an illness, it is advised that you replace your toothbrush to prevent re-infection. Rinse your toothbrush after use, and allow it to air dry by storing it in an upright position to prevent bacteria growth.

 How to Choose the Right Toothbrush

What type of toothbrush you ultimately end up using is your decision. Make sure to choose a brush that is comfortable and easy to use, and that is the right size for reaching all the teeth in your mouth. The most important thing is that you like it and it will encourage you to brush twice daily.

Your dentist can offer a recommendation for you if you are overwhelmed by the choices or aren’t sure if a power toothbrush is a good option for you. You should only purchase toothbrushes approved by the American Dental Association, as these brushes undergo quality control testing.

As long as you are brushing your teeth regularly and effectively, it truly doesn’t matter what type of toothbrush you are using. Choose a high-quality toothbrush that will maintain it’s shape over three months of use and that cleans between and behind your teeth. Your toothbrush should be comfortable to use, with bristles that get your teeth clean without irritation.

If you have questions about the best type of toothbrush for your child let us know. ABC Dental is always happy to help answer any of your dental care questions.