Which Toothbrush is Right for You?

There are so many different types of toothbrush available, it can be hard to determine which one best suits your specific dental needs. Whether you’ve been using the same brand of toothbrush for years without questioning whether it’s doing a good job, or you find yourself trying a new model every time you buy a replacement, this handy guide will help you settle on the perfect toothbrush for your oral health requirements, once and for all.

Manual or electric?

Provided you’re using your toothbrush correctly, both manual and electric toothbrushes should be able to do a good job at removing plaque and food particles from your teeth, so the choice to go either manual or electric will depend largely on your individual needs. If price is a key factor for you, you’re probably going to want to select a manual toothbrush. Manual toothbrushes tend to come in a lot more varieties (more varied bristles, sizes etc.) than rechargeable electric toothbrush heads, and they make a much better choice for those who travel a lot. Conversely, electric toothbrushes can be more effective at plaque removal, especially for those who have difficulties with regular brushing due to arthritis or injury. They’re also a great choice for people who tend to brush too hard, as they can teach users to apply less pressure. If you’re still on the fence, why not try a battery powered toothbrush which combines the best of both worlds.

Soft or hard bristles?

Toothbrush bristles typically come in four varieties: extra soft/sensitive, soft, medium, and firm. Many people choose medium and firm toothbrushes as they believe they are better at removing plaque, however hard bristles can actually do more harm than good. Firm bristles can cause more wear and tear on the gums, and can even strip teeth of their enamel, so it’s better to go for soft or medium bristles and to observe proper brushing techniques to ensure plaque removal.

What about the size?

When it comes to selecting the size of your toothbrush, the best yardstick is the size of your mouth. If you have a larger mouth, go for a large or regular sized toothbrush that’s easy to use and reaches enough teeth at once. Small toothbrushes offer an advantage as they can be easily maneuvered into hard to reach areas and may be more effective at getting in between teeth, however overall brushing may take a little more time due to the smaller surface area.

Overall, selecting the right toothbrush will depend on your unique dental care requirements, and a fancy toothbrush doesn’t negate the need for proper brushing techniques. Eden Rise Dental are your family dental clinic in Berwick, and can advise you on the very best dental care techniques to keep your smile looking beautiful.