Hopefully, most of us realize that twice daily brushing, along with a single flossing, are the essential, basic steps to be taken to promote your oral health. But choosing the right brush for that twice daily brushing can sometimes be a source of confusion.
We urge you to read on as we try to explain some of the essential facts related to the choice of brushes, along with a gentle recommendation or two.
What about Bristles?
The American Dental Associate recommends the use of medium to soft bristled toothbrushes as they tend to be easier on the gums and enamel. In fact, hard bristles can actually damage these parts of your mouth as well as the root surfaces.
When it comes to the length of the bristles, you should choose the length you’re most comfortable with. Just be sure to avoid bristles that may be sharp or jagged and may damage your teeth and gums.
Types of Toothbrush Handles
As with the length of bristles, it’s largely a matter of personal choice. On the one hand, you may prefer a flexible handle as that allows you to angle the brush more easily, but others may prefer a rigid handle that’s easier to hold. It’s really just a matter of personal preference. The main thing is that you’re gripping that handle and brushing at least twice daily!
Manual or Power Toothbrushes?
While each type has its benefits, either can be effective in cleaning and protecting your teeth if used regularly.
Manual benefits
- Price – Manual brushes are cheaper than electrics, making them much easier to replace.
- Control – Some feel that using a manual allows them to control the amount of pressure being placed on their teeth.
- Convenience – Manuals are smaller than electrics, which could be a factor if you travel a lot, and of course, they don’t require charging.
- Health conditions – An electric brush can be very helpful to those suffering from conditions like arthritis that limit their manual dexterity. It can make removing plaque and preventing gum disease even easier since you don’t have to put as much effort into brushing your teeth.
- Variable speeds and timer – Electric models with variable speeds can be helpful to those with very sensitive teeth and gums, and a built-in timer helps make sure you’re brushing for a full two minutes.
- Great for kids – Your children may be hesitant to bush when they should, and an electric brush may help overcome their obstinance. Using an electric brush, especially one with various speeds and a timer, can make brushing seem like fun rather than a chore.
Electric benefits
Replace Your Toothbrush Often
Finally, there is the question of how often you should replace your brush, and this one is pretty easy to answer. Whether you’re using a manual toothbrush, or in the case of an electric toothbrush, the brush head, should be replaced every three months.
Children’s Dentistry in Round Lake Beach, Illinois
Please understand that these comments are general guidelines, and in addition to your daily home hygiene, it’s essentialto schedule regular dental visits to maintain your oral health.
At Reilly & Siegel Family Dental we offer a wide variety of the latest and most advanced dental services, including restorative and cosmetic dentistry, and we hope you will not neglect your dental health. At your earliest opportunity, we urge you to contact us to schedule your next appointment at Reilly & Siegel Family Dental.
