The most common question that every dentist faces no matter where they are …in the clinic, in an elevator, on a flight or even at a party – DR, WHICH IS THE BEST TOOTHBRUSH?
My simple answer has always been – THE ONE YOU ACTUALLY USE!
Here are 7 easy tips to help you make the right choice when it comes to choosing your toothbrush.
1. BRISTLES – Material, Shape & Texture
Bristles are usually made of nylon material and should be really soft in their texture they can even be extra soft. The shape of the bristles is not as important and you can choose from multiple options in the market today with criss-cross action and various designs.
Recently bristles impregnated with different materials like activated charcoal have also become available and must be used only if they maintain the same soft texture or the original bristle. Materials that impregnate the bristles can also cause increased wear and tear of the teeth.
2. BRUSH DESIGN
- The brush head is the second most important factor which should be small and sleek enough to allow you to access even the areas in the back of your mouth.
- The brush handle must be ergonomic giving you a good grip without slipping and allowing you to brush well with the right technique.
3. BRUSHING PRESSURE
Contrary to the popular belief of brushing hard, gentle or mild brushing pressure is recommended. Excess pressure over many years of faulty brushing can cause abrasion of teeth and wear out of your all-important enamel layer. Some automated brushes now come with an indicator to signal when brushing pressure is too much for your teeth.
4. ADDITIONAL CLEANING BESIDES TEETH
Your brush also can come with additional features to be able to clean your gums and even your tongue since it’s not just the teeth that encompass our good oral health and hygiene.
5. AUTOMATION
You can choose an automated brush which can range from a simple battery-operated brush to the latest smart brushing innovations.
5. LONGEVITY
A brush should last between 3-6 months depending on your brushing pressure. If you see the bristles fraying it is time to replace it.
Ideally, we can replace the entire brush if manual or then replace just the brush head in case of an automatic brush.
5. COST
This is the least important factor to use when choosing your brush, and yet it must be considered as brushes are replaced frequently and you maybe factoring not just you but your entire family. While the latest innovations can be an investment to make, a simple, inexpensive, manual brush with the above factors can also do the job and help maintain your pearlies in pristine condition.
If you’re feeling somewhat self-conscious about your teeth or just want a more beautiful smile, call us at 7045497915 or email us at info@thepainfreedentist.co.in