Choosing the Right Toothbrush for Your Mouth

If you have ever taken the time to look around the dental hygiene section in your local grocery store or pharmacy, you know just how many different choices there are when it comes to toothbrushes. There are even choices, within choices to be made. After you make the initial decision of electric versus manual toothbrush, you still have more decisions to come. Having to make the decision about what type of toothbrush you should have becomes especially hard when you don’t know the differences between options. While you want to make the best choice, you first have to know what to look for.

When it comes down to making a final decision, the main factors to think about are how hard the bristles are, and how large the head of the toothbrush is. You want your toothbrush to be large enough to cover and reach all of the surfaces of your teeth. Most toothbrushes will write an age recommendation on the package, which will help you determine what size brush is right for you. In determining the type of bristle to use, there are three options: soft, medium, and hard. Most dentists recommend using soft or medium bristles as hard bristles increase the likelihood of damaging gums and tooth enamel.

Most people’s biggest concern when deciding whether or not to purchase an electric toothbrush is the effectiveness. In reality, electric and manual toothbrushes have the same amount of effectiveness when it comes to teeth cleaning if they are used properly. However, many users of electric toothbrushes find that they are easier to use and it makes them want to brush their teeth more often. In many cases, children also prefer the electric toothbrushes because they appear to be more fun, which is an important factor at that age.

The truth is, how you brush your teeth has a greater impact on the effectiveness of your toothbrush than the type of brush does. The main decision in determining which toothbrush is right for you comes down to personal preference. You want to choose a brush that you find comfortable on your teeth. You will always want to make sure that whatever toothbrush you end up with is marked with the American Dental Association Seal of Approval. This lets you  know that the toothbrush has been shown to be effective. Also remember to always replace your toothbrush every three months, or when it starts to become worn out.