How to Pick the Right Toothbrush for You

When the time comes to replace your toothbrush every 3 months, it can be a bit of a pain. There are so many kinds. Why can’t there just be one universal type of toothbrush? That’s because no two smiles are alike, and everyone has different needs. So how can you choose one that fits your unique smile? A dentist in East Islip is here to provide you with tips on how to make the right selection.

Qualities to Look For

When it comes to how to choose a toothbrush, there are a few qualities you should look for, such as:

• Soft bristles. Hard or even medium bristles may irritate the gum tissue and wear down your enamel, causing sensitive teeth and leaving you more susceptible to cavities. In addition to soft bristles, use a gentle polishing technique to clean your teeth.
• Comfort. Choose a brush that can comfortably fit in your mouth and brush one to two teeth at a time. Pick whichever type feels better in your hand and will motivate you to brush more often.

Electric or Manual Toothbrush?

There has been some debate over the years about whether manual or powered toothbrushes get the job done better. They each come with their own sets of benefits and drawbacks. Electric toothbrushes are easier to hold for those with mobility issues, anyone wearing braces, or people with misaligned teeth that make using a manual toothbrush harder. However, they are often more expensive than traditional toothbrushes, and it can be more difficult to find a replacement brush head every 3 months.

Meanwhile, manual brushes are available at nearly every pharmacy or even grocery store, and rarely if ever cost more than 5 dollars. However, they may be harder for children or people with arthritis to use.

When to Replace Your Toothbrush

A good rule of thumb is to replace your brush (or brush head if you’re using an electric brush) every 3 months. However, if you have been sick recently, you’ll want to replace it even sooner to prevent your illness from returning. As soon as the bristles start to look frayed and worn, the brush won’t do as good a job as it normally would, so you’ll want to get a new one.

Picking the right toothbrush is important to ensure good dental health. Choosing a toothbrush can be challenging, but hopefully this guide made it a little easier.

About the Author

Dr. Gary Rosenfeld has more than 35 years of experience in the dental field so far. He has been honored by the New York State Dental Society for completing over 1000 hours of continuing education courses throughout his career. He loves staying up to date on the best and latest technology that modern dentistry has to offer. If you would like Dr. Rosenfeld’s advice on picking a toothbrush that best meets your needs, he can be reached through his website or by calling (631) 581-8600.