5 Things to Consider When Selecting a Toothbrush

Selecting a toothbrush may sound like a simple thing to do, but there are so many choices available in pharmacies that it can be difficult to make a decision. Knowing what factors to consider and what to look for can make the process easier.

As your dentist in Reseda, CA, we can help with this process. We often provide advice to our patients about toothbrushes. Here’s what to know.

1. Bristle Softness

You don’t need a hard bristle brush to remove plaque and tartar. In fact, a soft bristle toothbrush is plenty to get rid of the gummy food residue that sticks to your teeth. Brushing for 2 minutes each time with a soft bristle brush can help ensure that you’ll get your teeth properly cleaned each time you use your toothbrush.

Medium-hard or hard bristle brushes can wear down your tooth enamel or cause gum recession, so pay close attention when picking the toothbrush from the store.

2. Head Size

You don’t need a large toothbrush head to reach your teeth; in fact, big toothbrush heads can be hard to use and manipulate in your mouth. Look for a relatively small, agile toothbrush head when shopping for a toothbrush.

3. Angled Brush

Straight toothbrushes are common, but an angled brush is better for reaching parts of your mouth like your far back teeth. Look for an angled brush to make it easier to reach the rear parts of your mouth. This may be especially important if your dentist reports that your back teeth need better cleaning.

4. Electric Vs. Manual

Electric toothbrushes use sonic waves or an oscillating head to clean plaque and tartar. These toothbrushes have been shown to do a better job of cleaning tooth enamel than manual counterparts.

Most electric toothbrushes time how long you spend brushing your teeth, so you’ll know that you’ve been doing it for long enough. Some even come with an app that can tell you how you’re doing and what you can do differently to keep your teeth clean.

5. Not Sure Which Toothbrush Is Best? Ask Your Dentist for a Recommendation

The next time you come in for a dental cleaning in Reseda, CA, talk to your dentist at Canby Dental. Your dentist can help you decide which type of toothbrush is best.