February 28, 2018

With so many toothbrushes on the market, it may be confusing on which is the best type of toothbrush to choose. The average american will spend more than 1,000 hours brushing their teeth making this a very important topic. Here are some guidelines for you to consider when buying your next toothbrush:

  1. The softer the better: The American Dental Association recommends using a soft bristle toothbrush because they are better at removing plaque and debris from your teeth. Hard bristles can cause your gums to recede and expose the roots of your teeth.
  2. Get a Grip: Using a toothbrush with a rubber grip around the handle can make it easier to brush in the hard to reach places in your mouth.
  3. Go Electric: Electric toothbrushes are great for people wearing braces or those who have arthritis. They also make it easier to reach the hard to clean spots in the back of your mouth.
  4. Look For The Seal: Make sure your toothbrush is approved by the American Dental Association. The ADA Seal of Acceptance is located on the front of the packaging on any ADA approved toothbrush.
  5. Get Comfortable: Ultimately you need to find a toothbrush that is comfortable for you. Options like angled heads, raised bristles, oscillating tufts, and color are ultimately personal preferences and don't effect your ability to brush your teeth effectively.
Remember, for optimum dental health, replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or when the bristles begin to fray. Toothbrushes should also be thrown away after an illness so that bacteria doesn't linger on the brush. If you have any questions about the effectiveness of your toothbrush don't hesitate to ask your friends at Dental Care of Mid-Florida.