Choosing a toothbrush can be as simple as breathing oxygen for many of us. Eventually, all toothbrushes work the same way, right? Maybe not. You can find many types of toothbrushes.
Whether the toothbrush is manual or electric, you should look for specific characteristics. It is crucial to consider the brush head size, shape, and type of bristles when choosing a toothbrush.
Below are a few tips to help identify the best toothbrush for you and your child.
Make Your Toothbrush Head Fit Your Mouth.
You should select a toothbrush head that allows you to access all your teeth surfaces easily.
Some people have larger mouths, while others have smaller ones. Therefore, it’s essential to choose the right toothbrush head size for you. For instance, if you have difficulty reaching the nooks and crannies of your mouth, a smaller head might be a good option.
You may also want to buy a toothbrush that is easy to hold. Choose a long enough handle to allow you to carry it comfortably. Keeping your hand uncomfortable when brushing your teeth twice a day can make the recommended two-minute brushing period feel much longer!
Disposable or Electrics
It depends on your personal preference whether you use a manual toothbrush or a powered one. Both are effective at cleaning your teeth.
If you brush your teeth regularly using the proper technique, you should be able to keep plaque away from your teeth and keep your gums healthy, whether you use a manual or powered toothbrush.
Electric toothbrushes, in general, tend to enhance oral health: Among other benefits, they tend to reduce plaque and may help reduce gum disease risk. However, for some people, the cost of these toothbrushes is exorbitant, while others like the feel of a regular toothbrush. Finally, the best option for you is the one you’ll utilize regularly.
Toothbrush Bristles
There are three types of toothbrush bristles – soft, medium, and hard. Most people will feel more comfortable and safer using a soft-bristled toothbrush. If you brush your teeth very vigorously or have weak teeth. Then soft-bristled toothbrush might be the one for you since medium- and hard-bristled brushes can damage the gums, root surfaces, and protective enamel on your teeth leading you to seek dental treatments.
Choosing the Right Toothbrush for Children
When choosing a toothbrush for your children, make sure it’s one they will use frequently and correctly. Several options are available for kids, including batteries and disposable toothbrushes.
Furthermore, they are available in various colors and depict classic stories and cartoon characters that children love. Sometimes, they play music, so your child knows how long to brush.
Try these suggestions when selecting a toothbrush for your children:
- Select a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Let your children pick out their toothbrushes if they are old enough to do so. If you get your children involved in the process, they might be more likely to enjoy brushing their teeth.
When Should You Replace Your Toothbrush?
After recovering from a cold or another illness, switching your toothbrush is essential. Or, your brush bristles might collect bacteria, leaving you vulnerable to reinfection.
Changing your toothbrush or powered toothbrush head is necessary if you encounter any of the following:
- It shows signs of wear and tear.
- It has been in use for three months.
A quick tip: Put a reminder in your calendar to change your toothbrush or powered brush head three months after you get it.
Finally,
Taking good care of your teeth using the right toothbrush will ensure your dental health for years to come. Semi-annual teeth cleaning is also vital. Talk to your dental care team regularly about your oral hygiene practices and the best toothbrush.
Author bio:
Dr. Nabil Mockbil is an Orthodontist who received his DDS in 2001 from Umea University in Sweden, regarded as having the best dentist programme in Sweden for undergraduates. He’s now the founder of Swedish Dental Clinic – Dubai Marina.
