What’s the Difference Between Toothbrushes?
When you are looking for a toothbrush, there are certain things that you should consider to make sure that you purchase the right one for your needs. The right tooth brush should be easy to place in your mouth. Some brushes are very large which makes them uncomfortable. Larger does not always mean better. On average, a toothbrush that measures up to an inch long is perfect for the adult mouth. Your toothbrush should also have a long enough handle so that it can comfortably fit in your hand and still reach the backs of your molars.
Bristle Selection
For most people, soft bristles are the best selection. Most people apply sufficient pressure to the brush when they are cleaning their teeth, so stronger bristles may cause discomfort to the teeth and gums. You will also want to look for a toothbrush that has rounded ends on the bristles. Rounded ends will clean your teeth well and will not harm your gums.
Seal Of Approval
One of the best ways to ensure that you are selecting a toothbrush that is right for your teeth is to look for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Approval. The ADA tests brushes for effectiveness and safety and will only give their seal of approval to those brushes that meet all of their high standards. It is important to understand that not every toothbrush available on the market, especially those found in discount stores, will meet these standards.
Manual Or Electric
There has been much discussion on whether a person should use an electric toothbrush or a annual one. After having many tests conducted, it has been discovered that both types of brushes are effective at removing plaque and helping to prevent gum disease. It is personal reference on which type of toothbrush to select.
If you do opt for an electric toothbrush, these same tests reveal that brushes that use the rotation oscillation movement have the best cleaning power. These brushes are marked on their packaging that they use this type of movement.
Choosing A Toothbrush For Children
Parents should use the same guidelines when selecting a toothbrush for their children with the exception of brush head size. You do not want your children to use an adult size toothbrush because it will not reach their back teeth and may be hard to maneuver. Elect a child-size toothbrush with soft bristles and make sure that it is ADA approved.
Changing Your Toothbrush
It is recommended that you change your toothbrush at least twice a year, with more dentists leaning towards once every three months. Changing your brush will keep the bristles in good shape and will help prevent bacteria buildup on the brush.
You may wish to experiment with a few different types of toothbrushes until you are satisfied with the shape and feel of the brush. Some people may also switch between electric and manual to see which they like better. Experimenting with this will allow you to find the right brush which will lead to better oral health.
We’ve all heard the dental myths, including the harder you brush, the cleaner your teeth. This is simply untrue. If you are not sure which toothbrush is right for you, or if you are having problems with your toothbrush being too rough on your gums, consult your dentist. A dental professional will be able to recommend the right toothbrush based on your specific needs.
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