What to Look for in a Toothbrush

The toothbrush is the most personal of our hygiene items once it is purchased. However, how many know the best qualities of, and what to look for, when purchasing a toothbrush?

Comfort

The grip handle, along with the size and shape of the brush head, are the features that make a toothbrush comfortable to use. When shopping for a new brush, take note of the variety of sizes, shapes, length and the number of bristles.

These choices will not affect the cleaning of your teeth. It is important for you to match the available features of a toothbrush to characteristics of your teeth and mouth. Choosing a toothbrush with a handle grip that is uncomfortable for you will make brushing difficult and ineffective.

The most personal of our hygiene items needs to be individualized as you are responsible for effective teeth cleaning and oral wellness.

Soft Bristles

There is a reason that the toothbrush received after a dental appointment has soft bristles. Soft bristles are the best for cleaning away plaque without damaging the gums and enamel.

There is the misconception that hard bristles are better for cleaning. However, hard bristles are not flexible to clean the areas under the gums and between teeth, the areas they need the most frequent cleaning.

Old Fashioned or New Fangled?

Again, this is personal. Electric toothbrushes are better for orthodontic patients with the feature of maneuverability around braces. People who are not consistent with daily oral hygiene, children and arthritic patients may find greater comfort and benefits with an electric toothbrush.

For those practicing consistent dental habits on a daily basis, and who prefer brushing manually, will experience the same results as those using an electric toothbrush. Steven Horne, DDS recommends a soft-bristled toothbrush be fully dried between uses and be replaced every 3-6 months when the bristles begin to bend and appear worn down.

Please visit the offices of Steven Horne, DDS near you in Encinitas, California, for a personalized consultation on general, cosmetic or Invisalign orthodontics. Dr. Horne and his team of dental professionals are committed in providing contemporary, quality and holistic care to patients, walk-ins and those needing emergency dental care.