How to Choose the Best Toothbrush for You

September 16, 2016, Billings Dental Care

With so many different shapes and sizes of toothbrushes available in the market these days, it has become difficult to decide the perfect one for you. We have long debated the pros and cons of soft versus hard bristles, and powered versus manual toothbrushes. Read on to find out which one is best for you.

1. Go Soft on Your Gums

Hard bristles can damage gums and teeth enamel. When using a toothbrush vigorously, the very action of brushing or scrubbing is abrasive. The goal of brushing is to clean teeth of plaque and other deposits and not to tear gums or wear out teeth enamel. Damaged enamel results in sensitivity and painful discomfort so avoid aggressive brushing. Soft bristles when used properly, massage the gums and do not result in gum recession which exposes the teeth to infection and other dental complications.

2. Choose Comfort Over Everything

While picking a toothbrush, remember that comfort is key. The toothbrush should fit properly in your hand and mouth for easy handling and effective cleaning. The stem of the brush should also be flexible to enable thorough reach and cleansing.

3. Heading the Right Way

Carefully consider the shape of the toothbrush’s head when making a selection at the supermarket. Ensure that the bristles will reach the back molars, cover every tooth, and reach every area. Some heads are straight, some are tapered and some are diamond-shaped. Toothbrush heads come with cross action bristles, gum massagers and indicators or plague and tongue cleaners. Some come with a flexible head for better grip and cleansing. If possible, stand in front of the mirror and imitate a brushing action to gauge the toothbrush best suited for you. Once you find a brush that suits your purpose, stick to it.

4. Manual or Powered Toothbrush

As long you stick to your dental regime and use the recommended technique, both manual or powered toothbrushes are okay to use. Powered toothbrushes are more expensive and need the heads changed as often as one would change a manual toothbrush. Those suffering from restriction of movement may find powered toothbrushes more suitable. Some believe they remove more plaque than manual brushes and are fun and easier to use. Manual as well as powered brush heads need to be replaced as soon as they show signs of wear and tear or every three months.

5. Break the Barrier with Sonic Toothbrushes

Relatively new in the market, these toothbrushes were launched in the early 90’s and have become popular in the western world. Using two methods of cleaning—conventional or mechanical and sonic cleaning.  The bristles of this toothbrush scrub the surface of the teeth for effective removal of plaque. A motor generates frequencies between 200-400 Hz (Hertz).  All one needs to do is moisten the bristles and apply a bit of toothpaste. Place the bristles flat against the teeth and switch on the power. Apply light pressure to enable the brush to do the brushing while gently brushing the head in back and forth motions so that the bristles reach between the teeth. Do each side for thirty seconds and pay attention to chewing areas or areas with stains.

6. Rounding it Off

Toothbrushes with rounded bristles reduce the chances of soft tissue damage and gums. Flat-trimmed brushes fray easily and when used with vigour cause bleeding gums that lead to a number of infections and gum-related problems.

Keeping the above points in mind, choose the right kind of toothbrush suited for you and your teeth and follow a strict dental regime. Use the recommended toothpaste and brush your teeth properly so your trips to the dentist will be reduced drastically.

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