If you peruse the toothbrush aisle at your local store, chances are you will find a plethora of options from which to choose: varied sizes, bristles, and types. Although it can be overwhelming to know what toothbrush is best, here are a few guidelines to help you choose the toothbrush that is right for you.
Brush Head
To start, it is important to choose the correct size brush head for your mouth. Toothbrushes typically come in sizes from full size heads down to a compact head. To choose correctly, opt for one that fits well in your mouth and one that can also reach to the back molars. Some adults even find that smaller (youth or child) toothbrushes are a better option for them due to the ease in which they fit and reach all the teeth in their mouth. One of the benefits of a smaller head on a toothbrush is that it more easily cleans each individual tooth as it can wrap around the tooth a bit more effectively.
Brush Bristles
Bristles can vary in range from firm to soft. Most dentists will recommend a brush with softer bristles for sensitive teeth and gums. With a softer bristle, the negative impact on gums and sensitive teeth is minimized but may not be as effective at removing plaque on your teeth as a firmer bristle. If you struggle with plaque buildup, you may want to choose a medium bristle, but one that still does not damage your gums when brushing.
Spin or Electric Toothbrushes
If you are serious about taking your daily dental hygiene to the next level, you may want to consider investing in a spin brush or a higher-end electric toothbrush. These toothbrushes help you maximize your efforts by increasing the motion of the brush on your teeth. The spin brushes and electric toothbrushes will remove more plaque than manual brushing. Just be sure to get a brush that will be small enough to fit all the way to the back of your mouth to properly reach your molars for optimal cleaning.
Spin or Electric Toothbrushes are an especially great option for kids as they make brushing more fun and engaging. Consider investing in one for each of your children to help motivate good brushing habits!
No matter what toothbrush you choose, be sure to change it out every three to four months, or more often if the bristles become frayed. Frayed/worn bristles lose their effectiveness. A newer toothbrush will do a better job of removing plaque and keeping your teeth healthy.
At the end of the day, choosing the right toothbrush is all about ensuring you have the right tools to keep your teeth and gums healthy for the long term. Pick the best toothbrush for you and stay consistent with your dental hygiene habits. Your mouth will thank you!
