You probably don’t give your toothbrush or toothpaste a second thought. Maybe you simply use what your parents bought you as a kid, or you might choose your toothbrush based on color or the first package you see. Does it matter what toothbrush or toothpaste you use? Generally, it’s more important that you are brushing and flossing daily. Here are some helpful tips for choosing toothpaste and a toothbrush.
How to Choose the Right Toothbrush
There are dozens of styles of toothbrushes on the market. Here are some tips for selecting a toothbrush:
- A soft-bristled brush is better for your teeth over harder bristles. The soft bristles are effective at removing plaque and food particles without damaging the enamel.
- Small-head brushes reach more areas in the mouth better than larger ones.
- If you have manual dexterity issues, a powered toothbrush can help you do a better job of brushing. Generally, it doesn’t matter whether you use a powered or manual toothbrush.
What does matter with a toothbrush, however, is the proper technique when brushing. You should brush for at least two minutes, twice a day. Hold your brush at a 45 degree angle against your teeth. Brush gently in a circular motion. You don’t want to brush too hard because it can damage your gums and tooth enamel. Be sure to floss once a day. It doesn’t matter whether you floss before or after brushing. It’s recommended that you brush before bedtime to leave your mouth clean and fresh without any bacteria on the teeth overnight.
Choosing the Right Toothpaste
The best toothpaste is one that you will regularly use, so choose one that you like. Fluoride strengthens the enamel of your teeth, so you should use a toothpaste with fluoride. A small amount of textured toothpaste can help remove particles of food, but it’s not necessary. If you don’t like the gritty feel, select a different brand. If you have sensitive teeth, you might want to select a toothpaste that helps sensitivity. Be sure to also tell a dentist, like a family dentist in Morrisville, NC, about your sensitive teeth. Finally, if you want to whiten your teeth, it’s better to work with your dentist rather than to use whitening toothpaste.
What Is the Best Toothbrush for You?
Choose a toothbrush that you will use. The finest and most expensive toothbrush doesn’t mean a thing when it just sits in its holder. Don’t forget to replace your toothbrush about every three months, or right after you’ve had a cold. Keep up with your regular dental exams and cleanings for the best oral care.
Thanks to Alliance Dentistry for their insight into how to choose a toothbrush and toothpaste.