As you prepare to shop for your new toothbrush, it’s important to know what to look for. With so many options on the market, how do you know which toothbrush to purchase? Toothbrushes come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Some are electric, some are made of plastic, and others feature built-in toothpaste in. There are even toothbrushes with vibrating heads! With so many options on the market, how do you know which toothbrush to purchase?
Which Brush is Best?
The answer is simple: choose one that will work best for you — one that is easy to use and comfortable in your mouth. For their part, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends choosing only a manual toothbrush. Why? They say an electric toothbrush can do a good job of cleaning your teeth — if you use it correctly and don’t forget to brush all areas of your mouth. But if you’re not used to using an electric toothbrush or don’t want to spend extra time caring for your teeth, then a manual version is a better choice.
Brushing Time
If you want an electric toothbrush for its convenience and speed or if you want something that automatically shuts off after two minutes (the recommended brushing time), then go ahead and buy one. But if you’re just looking for a good manual brush, there are plenty of options available that will do the job just fine!
- The first thing to consider is whether you want a power or manual toothbrush. If you have dental insurance, it may be worth your while to ask your dentist whether they recommend one type over another.
- If you choose a power toothbrush, make sure it has a built-in timer and pressure sensor. These features will help ensure that you brush long enough (2 minutes) and not too hard (40g of force).
- If you choose a manual toothbrush, opt for one without an angled neck or flossing tips as these may cause more harm than good. Also make sure that it’s soft-bristled with rounded ends so as not to damage enamel or gums.
Other Toothbrush Options
Bristle Type
Bristles come in soft, medium, and hard varieties. Soft bristles are good for those with sensitive teeth or gum recession, while medium and hard bristles tend to be better at plaque removal.
Head Size
The size of the head refers to how big it is in relation to the handle — not how many rows of bristles there are on the head. Smaller heads tend to be more maneuverable but may also require more strokes per tooth than larger ones. Because of this, many people prefer large-headed brushes because they feel like they can get more done in less time. Again, personal preference is key here!
Handle Material
Handles come in either plastic or rubberized materials and both work well, although rubberized handles tend to be easier on the hands during long brushing sessions. Some handles have grips built into them which makes them easier to hold onto as well!
About Dr. Fred Wong of Blue Ocean Dentistry in Glendora
Dr. Fred Wong and the staff at Blue Ocean Dentistry use the latest available dental treatments, equipment, and materials – all of which make a marked difference in our patients’ experiences. We are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal dental health. We creatively combine dental science and artistry — which can literally redesign your smile. Since even a subtle change in your smile will help you to project self-confidence and high self-esteem, we love helping you feel good about yourself. We deliver the finest dental care at the most reasonable cost and accept most dental insurance plans as well as CareCredit. For more about the dental treatment plans we offer or to schedule an appointment, call today (626) 852-6999.