Choosing a Toothbrush: 4 Tips for Selecting One That Is Right for You

According to the American Dental Association, patients should replace their toothbrush every three to four months. Nevertheless, it is estimated that 75% of Americans don’t follow this suggestion. If you fall into that statistic and your bristles are frayed, the handle is worn, or you can’t remember the last time you replaced it, then it is time for a new toothbrush! However, what was originally supposed to be a quick trip to the store can turn into a 30-minute excursion if you don’t know what to look for in an aisle jam-packed with different brands, colors, and types. To take the headache out of shopping for a new toothbrush, a dentist is sharing four tips for finding the right one for you.

Tip #1: Talk to Your Dentist About Manual vs. Electric

For years, experts and the public alike have debated whether manual or electric toothbrushes are better. Since each has its pros and cons, it can be beneficial to speak with your dentist about what they recommend for you. For example, patients with arthritis and other health conditions may benefit from an electric toothbrush that handles the movement for you. Plus, they can provide you with information on which brands are best, how to take care of your toothbrush, and how to properly use an electric toothbrush so you can bypass the learning curve.

Tip #2: Select One with Soft Bristles

All too often, patients compensate for frayed bristles with an aggressive brushing technique. However, using hard bristles and a firm hand can expose your teeth dentin, cause tooth sensitivity, and lead to receding gums. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to use a soft-bristled toothbrush instead. That way, you can get the superior clean you need without compromising the health of your teeth and gums.

Tip #3: Look for the ADA Seal of Approval

According to the American Dental Association, their ADA Seal of Acceptance Program began in 1931. Today, it remains a gold standard for assessing the safety of dental tools. Since products must undergo a rigorous amount of testing to be a recipient of this highly regarded accolade, patients can have peace of mind knowing they are purchasing a quality toothbrush.

Tip #4: Get the Right Size Toothbrush for Younger Family Members

To ensure that each member of your household is getting a thorough clean, it is important to consider the size of the toothbrush. While a standard adult toothbrush may allow you to scrub every surface of your mouth, the same toothbrush used by a young child may be too large to effectively clean their back molars. Therefore, make sure to select a toothbrush that is made for their age group!

At first glance, staring down an aisle filled with different toothbrushes can be overwhelming. Fortunately, you can use the above four tips from a family dentist to make the process quick and easy!

About the Author

After completing his undergraduate degree from the University of Texas at Austin, Dr. Jayme Martinez earned his doctorate from the Baylor College of Dentistry. Since then, he has achieved certification in nitrous oxide and Level 1 Sedation, completed numerous hours of continuing education, and become a member of multiple reputable organizations (like the American Dental Association). If you would like to speak with Dr. Martinez about selecting the right toothbrush, improving your oral care, or scheduling your bi-yearly appointment, visit his website or give him a call at 214-303-9969.