How to Find the Best Toothbrush for Your Individual Needs

How much thought do you really put into your toothbrush? Not about how to brush, or how often to brush, or any concerns directly related to its operation – just about the brush itself. Have you actually stopped and thought about which type of toothbrush you should use, or do you just grab one at random off the shelf at the grocery store?

Most toothbrushes are adequate for the needs of the average person. But you’re not the average person: You’re one individual, with unique dental care needs. And properly choosing a toothbrush matters.

Look for the Seal

One universal principle of toothbrush selection is to use only brushes that carry the ADA Seal of Acceptance. The cheapest toothbrushes often do not have this seal, and are less useful. The seal affirms that:

• The tips are safe
• The bristles will remain in place
• The handle can handle day-to-day usage
• The brush is, in general, effective at removing plaque
• If the toothbrush is electric, it’s gone through clinical trials to prove its safety

Electric Toothbrushes

In many cases, dentists recommend electric toothbrushes because they do most of the hard work for you. Studies have shown that one particular style of electric toothbrush is superior: the rotation oscillation style, which has bristles that move in circles as well as back and forth. You might be a good candidate for an electric toothbrush if you:

• Have a condition that limits your mobility or manual dexterity, such as arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Habitually brush your teeth harder than is necessary. Electric toothbrushes more easily discourage this behavior.
• Tend to brush for less than the recommended two minutes. Many electric toothbrushes give a notification at two minutes, or even every 30 seconds to ensure you brush all four quadrants of your mouth.

Manual Toothbrushes

Electric toothbrushes are more expensive than manual ones, so that’s one important consideration for a lot of people. In addition, their vibrations can be uncomfortable for some. A big benefit for manual toothbrushes is that you have complete control. They have been around the longest, and you can’t go wrong if you use it correctly. When using a manual toothbrush, make sure you’re brushing with an up-and-down motion and in a circular motion. Don’t  brush side-to-side, as that could irritate your gums and wear down the enamel on your teeth. 

Kids’ Toothbrushes

As with adult toothbrushes, toothbrushes for children should bear the ADA seal and have soft bristles. Beyond that, the most important considerations in choosing a child’s toothbrush are the child’s preferences and comfort level. Simply put, the more your kid likes their toothbrush, the more likely they are to use it properly! Popular characters, vibrant colors, even musical tones can make the experience better for children.

Comfort Considerations

Once you’ve decided which style of toothbrush is right for you, it’s worth looking into some of the other factors that can affect effectiveness. Some of the brush components to mull over are:

• Bristles. Soft-bristled toothbrushes are generally superior to those with medium or hard bristles, as these may damage the gums, enamel and root surface. As a rule, you should only look at the latter two groups if your dentist explicitly recommends them for your specific needs. Your dentist may also recommend a brush with tapered or patterned bristles.
• Head size. Small brush heads are commonly recommended, as they are better equipped to clean the harder-to-reach areas of the mouth. For most adults, the ideal size is a half-inch wide and an inch tall. That said, the most important factors to consider are the size and shape of your own mouth: the smaller the mouth, the smaller the brush. Keep in mind that toothbrush heads are smaller on electric toothbrushes, so if you need a larger toothbrush, the brush head on an electric toothbrush may not cut it.
• Angle. Though they’re not for everybody, angled toothbrushes may be helpful for those who face challenges reaching all their teeth. The toothbrush you use should be able to reach the back of your molars without difficulty.
• Handle. Make sure the handle is long enough for you to hold the brush comfortably. Some toothbrushes are designed with non-slip grips, which can be easier to hold.
• Material. If you’re concerned about what happens to your toothbrush once you’re done with it, you might consider picking up one that’s easily recyclable or made of organic, biodegradable material.

Let Us Help You Pick the Right Brush

If you’ve been using your current brush for over three months, or if it’s starting to look worn out, it’s time for a new one. Not sure what makes the most sense for you? Reach out to our team at Springfield Dental Group. When you’re in for a routine cleaning or any other procedure, we’re happy to help you better understand your toothbrush needs.