National Toothbrush Day is here, and it’s time to celebrate! Well, maybe you’re not celebrating this holiday with a party or gifts, but there’s no reason not to observe it.
Did you know that it is recommended for you to change your toothbrush every three months? Or, if it’s frayed, you should replace it even sooner. You should also get a new toothbrush if you have recently been sick, especially if you had an norovirus or a similar illness.
So what should you look for in a toothbrush?
Soft Bristles
You might think that harder bristles are tougher when it comes to scrubbing bacteria off your teeth, but the opposite is actually true. Soft bristles are gentle on your gums and more effective at removing plaque, debris, and bacteria from your enamel. Soft bristles can also reach more effectively into the spaces between your teeth and along your gum line.
Harder bristles are uncomfortable for many people. What is more, they have the potential to cause gum bleeding, which is one way to get an infection if bacteria from your mouth reach your bloodstream. Hard bristles can also cause the gum line to recede, which can increase the sensitivity of your teeth and cause pain when you eat or drink.
Smaller Head
With toothbrushes, bigger isn’t necessarily better. You want a smaller head that you can easily maneuver around your mouth. A larger toothbrush can make it difficult to reach your back molars or other parts of your mouth, so it doesn’t usually clean your teeth as effectively.
As for the shape of the head and the grip of the toothbrush, those are up to you. The main point is to have soft, pliable bristles and a small head that cleans every part of your mouth.
What About Electric Toothbrushes?
You may have heard that electric toothbrushes clean your teeth more effectively, but this isn’t necessarily the case. However, they can be helpful for anyone who needs help brushing their teeth or who have a limited range of motion in their hands. People who have arthritis or who are wearing a wrist cast or brace may find electric toothbrushes helpful to increase the range of their brushing. Similarly, if you have extremely crooked or unusually spaced or crowded teeth, you may find that an electric toothbrush is more effective for you.
Another benefit of an electric toothbrush is that it may motivate you to brush your teeth more regularly and effectively. Some electric toothbrushes are equipped with timers to ensure you brush for the recommended two minutes. Some people find this a highly effective way to improve their oral hygiene. If this will help you, an electric toothbrush may be a good investment for you. If not, you may as well save the money as they can get expensive.
Finding a proper toothbrush doesn’t have to be hard. Focus on the basics and keep it simple if you like. Soft bristles and the proper size head will help your teeth shine.
Dentist's Tip:
If you haven't changed your toothbrush in a while, chances are you haven't had your teeth cleaned recently either. Schedule your next cleaning appointment today and we'll send you home with a brand new toothbrush too!