Thursday, September 12, 2019

How to Pick the Best Manual Toothbrush for You

Have you ever been standing in the toiletry aisle at your local store, staring at a wall of toothbrushes and wondering which one is right for you? The options seem endless. They come in every color imaginable… this one with an ergonomic grip, that one with additional rubber bristles and a tongue scraper on the back. Why are there so many?

Our Springfield area dentists at Access Dental know what’s best for your teeth, and we’re here to help you! Read on to find out what you really need from your next toothbrush, and what you don’t.



What Size Do I Need?


The standard toothbrush size for adults is a one-half-inch wide and one-inch tall brush head. The important information to know is this: The exact size is not important as long as you are able to reach every surface of your teeth. If that standard size makes it difficult to reach your back molars or the backs of your teeth, then choose a smaller size. If you have small teeth, then you may also want to consider a toothbrush with a smaller head. This will allow the bristles to get as far in between your teeth as possible.

A toothbrush handle does not have to be anything fancy. If it is easy to use and allows you to comfortably reach your back teeth, then it is perfect.

What Kind of Bristles Are Best?


Bristles have evolved significantly from their original conception. Many brands now offer rubber and even silicone bristles. Even standard nylon toothbrushes require a choice between soft, medium, and hard bristles. These new materials may sound more advanced, but they don’t necessarily do a better job at cleaning your teeth.

Another common misconception is that harder bristles clean your teeth better. It is true that they are more abrasive, but not in the way you would hope. Hard bristled toothbrushes can damage your gums, pulling them back from your teeth. Over time this can expose your tooth root and cause sensitivity.

Soft bristles clean your teeth well and protect your gum health at the same time. Most toothbrushes available in stores will indicate the level of softness with “soft” or the letter “S” on the packaging.



How Often Should Toothbrushes be Replaced?


Many people don’t realize how often they need to replace a toothbrush. Isn’t the toothpaste cleaning the brush, after all?

Your toothbrush should be replaced as soon as the bristles begin to look worn. Don’t wait until every bristle is splayed to the side. Your toothbrush cannot work effectively if the bristles are not in good shape. Some brushes have color indicators in the center of the bristles. When those bristles start to lose their color, it’s time to replace the toothbrush.

A typical toothbrush has a lifespan of about three months. Any time you recover from an illness, it is a good idea to get a new toothbrush. This helps prevent the spread of germs that may have transferred from your mouth to the toothbrush.

Keep It Simple


Your toothbrush doesn’t have to be a marvel of modern technology to clean your teeth well. When you choose your next manual toothbrush, just remember to choose a size that allows you to reach every tooth’s surface, stick to soft bristles, and replace it any time you get sick or the bristles start to wear.

Come by our offices at Access Dental to learn more about how to keep your teeth healthy. Your ideal dental health is our passion!

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST




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