Choosing The Right Toothbrush
Platte City, MO
Your toothbrush is one of the most important tools in your arsenal for good oral hygiene. It is essential for eliminating plaque and bacteria from your teeth to prevent buildup that can otherwise lead to tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. However, you may have noticed that there is a multitude of different toothbrushes available in the oral care aisle of your local pharmacy or grocery store. The choices can be overwhelming. Platte Valley Dental Care can help you to choose the right toothbrush for you.
Bristle TypeToothbrushes have different types of bristles, soft, medium, and hard. The recommendation is to use a toothbrush with soft bristles. They are generally regarded as the safest, as well as the most comfortable. This way, if you tend to be more vigorous when you brush, there is less risk of you causing damage to your gums and your tooth enamel.
SizeThe size of the head of your toothbrush is important. Smaller heads allow you to easily reach all areas of your mouth, which allows for more thorough, effective cleaning. Generally, the best size for an adult is a half of an inch wide by one inch tall. Larger heads are available, but you might find them difficult to maneuver. Make sure that you find a toothbrush that feels comfortable in your mouth and that you can move it easily.
HandlingThere are many different types of handles on toothbrushes. Some have nonslip grips, while others have a flexible neck. Whatever type of handle you like, make sure that it feels comfortable in your hand and that you can move it easily to reach all areas of your mouth.
Manual Vs. Electric ToothbrushesMany patients wonder whether they should use a manual toothbrush or an electric one. The choice is ultimately up to you. While electric toothbrushes cost more than manual brushes, they can make brushing a little easier, particularly for those who have trouble with manual dexterity. The head of the toothbrush moves rapidly, allowing you more strokes on your teeth than you can accomplish on your own. Even though the brush moves faster, though, it is still important to brush for two full minutes each time. Some electric toothbrushes have built-in timers that let you know when your two minutes are up.
Like choosing a manual brush, there are things to keep in mind when choosing an electric toothbrush. It should feel comfortable in your hand and your mouth, and the bristles of the head should be soft. You can also look for an electric toothbrush with the ADA seal of approval. This seal shows that the toothbrush has been tested for safety. If you are interested in an electric toothbrush, we can help to point you in the direction of brands we believe will provide you with the best results.
Regardless of the type of toothbrush you choose, it is important to remember to brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time. You should brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the fronts, backs, and chewing surfaces. Moreover, your toothbrush should be replaced every three months, or when you notice the bristles beginning to fray. If you have any other questions regarding the best toothbrush for you, call Platte Valley Dental Care at (816)858-2027 for more information today. |
