Does the Right Toothbrush Really Matter?

Does the Right Toothbrush Really Matter?

We all want to keep our teeth looking healthy and attractive, but how much of a factor does our toothbrush play in that? From selecting size, shape, bristle variety, and determining whether or not electric or manual is better, this blog from Nashoba Valley Dental has you covered. Read on to find out more about what factors you should be taking into consideration when selecting toothbrushes for adults and children.

What Factors Are The Most Important When Selecting a Toothbrush?

There are many different aspects of a toothbrush and we’re not just talking about the color. While it’s most important that you make sure you are brushing thoroughly and regularly for at least 2 minutes twice a day, these toothbrush characteristics may aid in your cleaning efficiency. The following are factors that you should take into consideration when selecting a toothbrush:

• Hard vs soft bristles
• Toothbrush head size
• Toothbrush head shape
• Electric vs manual
• Toothbrush material
  

Are Manual or Electric Toothbrushes Better?

Either a manual or electric toothbrush could be a good option for you depending on your circumstances. Manual toothbrushes are just as effective as electric ones as long as you are brushing properly at a 45-degree angle and for the recommended duration of time. 

They are also much cheaper, more easily accessible, and less prone to breaking. However, electric toothbrushes can be more effective at removing plaque and food particles because they do most of the work for you and make regular brushing more enjoyable. 

Rotating-oscillating electric toothbrushes are more effective than traditional toothbrushes at removing plaque and reducing the risk of gum disease, according to studies. They’re easier to use correctly and do most of the work for you.

What Do Dentists Recommend?

Dentists will usually recommend a manual toothbrush to their patients because they are easily accessible and affordable. Your dentist will recommend that you only use ADA-approved toothbrushes and toothpaste which have gone through extensive safety and efficiency testing.

Dentists also recommend that you use a soft-bristle toothbrush with a small head. These two aspects of your toothbrush are important because hard bristles can damage your teeth if you apply too much pressure and aren’t more effective at cleaning your teeth. 

To avoid enamel erosion, it’s best to use soft bristles. A smaller head is also recommended to enable you to thoroughly scrub in hard-to-reach places such as the back molars. Brushes that are too large and rectangular may be more difficult to maneuver and do not thoroughly clean the teeth that are most prone to harboring food particles.

Brushing Teeth in Children

Children should use very small toothbrushes designed specifically for their age group. Only use toothbrushes that contain the ADA seal of approval and have soft bristles. If they are old enough, it’s a good idea to get them involved in selecting their toothbrush. 

Allowing them to pick a toothbrush that is a certain color or bears a certain design that they like may encourage oral hygiene practices and make this a positive activity for them. You should monitor your child when they brush their teeth even if they are old enough to do it by themselves. 

Make sure that they are doing it thoroughly and for the recommended amount of time. Young children should be monitored and helped because they typically do not learn to avoid swallowing toothpaste until they are around 6 years old.

Schedule Your Child’s Next Dental Checkup at Nashoba Valley Dental

As long as you’re brushing regularly and thoroughly, then the specific toothbrush you use is negligible. The next best thing you can do for your oral health is to attend regular dental visits every 6 months. Contact us at Nashoba Valley Dental to schedule your next dental cleaning and checkup with Dr. Matthew Annese.