06 Mar What is the best toothbrush?
It’s time to finally get a new toothbrush but which one do you go for? Nowadays there are so many toothbrushes to choose from but are they are all the same and how do you know it is right for you? Electric vs manual? Soft vs hard bristles?
Which is the best toothbrush– manual or electric?
This is probably the question that everyone wants to know. Technically both options are great when used correctly with excellent technique. Manual toothbrushes are more skill-dependent whilst electric toothbrushes are probably better for most people for removing plaque and improving your dental hygiene. Electric toothbrushes can be a much better option for users who have limited dexterity such as children and people with arthritis. Electric toothbrushes have added benefits and commonly come with extra functions such as a timer and pressure sensor to help you achieve the best clean. Personally for me, electric wins hands down.
Oral B or Sonicare or others?
There are many different electric toothbrushes out there and there are two main mechanisms. The two of the biggest well-known brands are Braun Oral B and Philips Sonicare. They work by slightly different modes of action and the heads are different. Generally speaking, Oral B works by an oscillating rotational pulsating movement and the heads tend to be smaller and round. Whereas Sonicare has a sonic vibrating action and the shape of the toothbrush head tends to be more traditional. Both will spin or vibrate 1000s times per minute and so they tend to be more effective than a manual toothbrush. The debate is still out there for which is the best electric toothbrush, there is no clear winner and so really it’s down to preference of aesthetics, noise, budget and replacement head costs.
What is the best toothbrush – Soft or hard bristles?
Your teeth and gums are precious and therefore you want to use a soft bristle toothbrush to keep them clean and healthy. You may think that hard bristle toothbrushes will scrub better but actually it can do more harm than good and you risk wearing away the enamel or traumatising the gum leading the gums to recede. Remember it’s all about technique and reaching all the surfaces and not pressure.
What size toothbrush should I choose?
Generally speaking the smaller the brush head the better because it will allow you to reach all those different areas around your mouth. However, it is a balance as is it then all take you a lot longer to brush teeth. As everyone is mouths and teeth are different sizes, generally speaking, you want to pick one that is around the same as one of your back teeth.
When is the right time to replace a toothbrush?
Generally, it is recommended to replace your toothbrush every three to four months but this largely depends on the condition of the toothbrush head itself. If it’s all frayed, then it is definitely the right time for a new toothbrush.
Brush the teeth you want to keep!
Two minutes twice a day. Consistency is the key to success in life and that’s the same for your dental health. Now you selected your toothbrush, remember to visit your dentist at Bamber Bridge Dental Care twice a year to ensure that they are in top condition as prevention is better than a cure.
To find out how we can help, please call us on 01772 335207 or fill out our contact form and one our team will be in touch.
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