Many people do not even consider the kind of toothbrush they purchase when they go to their local pharmacy or grocery store. The right kind of toothbrush, however, can have monumental effects on your dental health and hygiene, preventing you from having strenuous dentist appointments.
Many of the factors that go into a great toothbrush are personal preference, but many factors have actual effects on your teeth and can help you keep them clean.
1. ADA Approval
The first thing you should check when buying a toothbrush is the status of its ADA approval. Any brush your dentist at your family dental clinic will recommend is ADA approved and your dentist can help you pick one. ADA approval requires the toothbrush to be sturdy, and bristles to have safe tips as to not harm your gums or teeth. ADA approved brushes are also extremely effective at removing plaque and preventing cavities and gum disease.
2. Electric or Manual?
The choice between electric or manual toothbrushes has been the hot topic of recent debates. The answer to this question however, lies in individual preference and circumstance. This is because manual and electric toothbrushes have been shown to be as effective as each other minus rotation oscillation toothbrushes. Your dentist will recommend that you use a toothbrush that is comfortable for you and that you will want to use every day.
3. Bristle Type
There are three bristle types available to you when you are shopping for a new toothbrush, soft, medium, and hard. Medium and hard bristles have specific purposes, but can damage your gums if used too vigorously, potentially causing a general dentistry visit. We recommend that most people stick to a soft-bristled toothbrush, unless recommended otherwise by your dentist and your family dental clinic.
For any questions regarding general dentistry and affordable dental care or to set up an appointment, call Paul Krause Dental today!