We use our toothbrushes multiple times daily and do not spend much time thinking about them. You most likely believe that all toothbrushes have an equal ability to keep your teeth in good shape. This is untrue. The toothbrush you use and how you use it significantly impact your overall oral health. Therefore, it is essential to choose the right toothbrush for you. Don’t worry if you don’t know where to start! We are excited to give you some of our favorite tips and tricks for selecting the right toothbrush and using it well.
How to Choose a Toothbrush
When toothbrushes began to be commonly used in the 1930s, there wasn’t a wide selection. Most people were using toothbrushes that had nylon bristles. These days, we have much more variety. In the United States, we are lucky enough to have many toothbrushes at our fingertips at local grocery stores and drugstores. You may believe the only two types of toothbrushes out there are electric and manual, but there is much more to it than that!
Five things to consider when selecting a toothbrush:
- Variety of bristles. Some toothbrushes have uniform hairs across the whole head, while others have a mixture of soft to stiff bristles and even some rubber components. Choosing which type is right for you should be based on your oral health. If you have gum problems, it is best to use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Safety. Safety may not be something that you think of regarding brushing your teeth. Choosing a safe toothbrush for your unique oral health and your brushing tendencies is imperative. For example, if you generally brush aggressively, an electric toothbrush may be a better choice for you as it will make it easier to be gentle while still cleaning your mouth.
- Professional recommendations. It is best to get the opinion of your dentist when looking to choose a new toothbrush. They will know your oral health needs better than anyone and, therefore, will be able to help you select a toothbrush that is tailored to your needs. When buying one, you should make sure that you pick one with the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval.
- Manual vs. Electric. Many people think that electric toothbrushes are significantly more effective than manual toothbrushes. This is false. It is more vital that you know how to use your toothbrush correctly, and the manual versus electric debate mainly comes down to your preferences.
- What should my child use? Your child should use a toothbrush with soft bristles and one that can easily fit into their hand. Have your child pick out the toothbrush if they are old enough to understand. Getting children involved in this process early will help them cooperate with oral hygiene and make it more fun.
Believe it or not, this is just the beginning when choosing the right toothbrush. Size, cost, and likability are essential factors in your selection. The more you consider these things, the easier it will be for you to find a toothbrush that is the right fit for your unique oral health! Give Marshall Family Dental a call today at (903) 938-8315 if you have any questions about selecting a toothbrush or would like to book an appointment. Click here to read about wisdom teeth recovery.