Your toothbrush is a crucial element in your oral hygiene routine. It features a plastic handle that you hold while you use the bristles at the brush’s head to scrub your teeth. The action of brushing removes harmful plaque and other residues that naturally develop on your teeth.
Twice each day, you must brush your teeth. But did you know that the type of toothbrush you choose for this process can affect your oral health? It can feel overwhelming to decide which toothbrush to use for your oral hygiene regimen.
If you know more about the options available to you when it comes to toothbrushes on the market, you can feel more confident about selecting one that works best for your smile. Read on to find tips from your dentist for finding the best toothbrush for your oral health needs.
Soft vs Hard Bristles
You want your toothbrush to have a set of firm, unfrayed bristles to maximize their scrubbing capability. But you should choose a soft-bristled brush rather than one with hard bristles.
Softer bristles are fully able to clean your teeth effectively without hurting your smile. Hard bristles could have a high risk of irritating your gums. If your gums bleed, they become more vulnerable to infection.
Hard toothbrush bristles may also prove too harsh for your tooth enamel. The act of scrubbing with this type of brush may damage the outer layer of your tooth, weakening your smile and making it susceptible to decay and many other issues. So stick with soft bristles for a clean and healthy smile.
Electric vs Manual Toothbrushes
A traditional manual toothbrush is a good way to get your smile clean when you know how to use it properly. Brush in purposeful circles on each tooth with gentle movements for at least two minutes.
However, many people may benefit from introducing an electric toothbrush to their routine. With an electric toothbrush, you can worry less about the technique of brushing because the device automatically moves the way it needs to. You can just slide the toothbrush on your teeth, and the motor will make sure your smile gets clean.
Plus, many electric toothbrushes come with a built-in timer so that you know how long to spend brushing your teeth. This device can make adhering to a consistent and thorough oral hygiene regimen easier.
More Tips for Toothbrush Selection
You can talk to your dentist at your next check-up to learn details about the types of toothbrushes that work best with your unique smile. But you should always look for an ADA seal on the product label. This way, you know the toothbrush is guaranteed to work as well as advertised.
You can also look for a toothbrush with different features, such as a tongue scraper, for an enhanced cleaning experience. There are certain toothbrushes that cater toward people with braces, dental implants, or periodontal problems. Take a look at the options available at your local store.