Which Toothbrush is Right for Me?

By Joey & Luke

When choosing a toothbrush, the best choice is the one that cleans effectively, thoroughly, and is comfortable for you to use.

Some tips for choosing a great toothbrush for you!

  1. Soft bristles are preferable over medium or hard bristles. The misconception exists that the harder the bristles, the better the toothbrush will clean. The reality is medium and hard bristle toothbrushes have the potential to cause damage, especially if used incorrectly. Proper technique and a soft-bristled brush will clean just as effectively as a medium or hard-bristled brush without causing damage to the gums or teeth.
  2. Battery-operated vs. Electric Toothbrushes. Battery-operated brushes typically have less power than an electric brush and do not tend to clean as effectively. Battery-operated brushes only last until the battery runs out and then you throw it away compared to an electric which is rechargeable indefinitely, and you simply change brush heads every 3-4 months. The effectiveness of an electric rechargeable brush surpasses a battery-operated one as well. Sonic or rotational electric brushes are superior in plaque removal and recommended.
  3. Manual toothbrushes with soft bristles work well when proper technique is used. Your dental hygienist should review your brushing technique every so often to ensure your brushing is effective.
  4. The size of the brush itself is also important; a too large or small brush can be ineffective at cleaning. A large brush may limit how far back you clean in your mouth as it may not fit. With a brush that is too small, it may not be large enough to cover the complete surface area of the mouth in two minutes. For a typical adult mouth, a size 30 or 35 brush head works well.
  5. The handle of the toothbrush is also important, it should be comfortable to hold and light enough that you do not become tired holding it, some toothbrushes these days are heavier than those 10-20 years ago. For those who have arthritis in their hands wrapping a facecloth around the toothbrush to thicken the grip can help when the hands are stiff.

Regardless of brush choice, it is important to brush for a full two minutes each time to ensure that plaque is fully cleaned from all the teeth to prevent oral infection.