When it comes to taking care of your teeth, the options for how to clean your teeth seem endless: cavity-fighting or anti-plaque toothpaste, thicker floss or floss with a smooth coating, regular toothbrushes or electric. And that’s just naming a few! Getting healthy teeth shouldn’t be an overwhelming task. When it comes to picking out the right toothbrush, just keep these few simple tips in mind.
Bristle Softness – You might think that firmer bristles will result in a more thorough cleaning, but soft bristles are actually the better choice. Softer bristles are easier on the gums and teeth; hard bristles could make gums bleed or even damage the tooth’s enamel. Soft bristles will still be able to brush away plaque buildup and food particles.
Toothbrush Size – In terms of the size of your brush head, smaller is usually better since it is easier to maneuver to the back sides of your teeth. A smaller-sized toothbrush head also gives you a little more control in reaching those tighter areas.
Electric vs. Manual – Electric toothbrushes may have a slight advantage over manual brushes – some people tend to brush for the full recommended two minutes with an electric toothbrush, since they don’t have to work as hard to clean their teeth. The extra motion of the bristles can also be helpful in reaching hard-to-access areas. However, manual brushes can clean just as effectively if people brush correctly.
These simple pointers for choosing the right toothbrush can help you keep your smile healthy. The family dentists at Dakota Dental want to help educate their patients and make good oral health a simple, attainable goal. Dakota Dental wants patients to have a perfect smile, and picking the best toothbrush for your teeth is one way to do it.