Share:

If you’ve ever been intimidated by a towering wall of toothbrush options, you know there’s more to your dental health than choosing a toothbrush in your favorite color. Toothbrushes come in different sizes and types, and the kind you choose will affect your overall hygiene.

Dentists recommend doing your research before deciding on a toothbrush because each kind is made with a different kind of mouth in mind. Here are three things to consider when you’re shopping for a new toothbrush.

Size

In general, the size of your toothbrush should be directly related to the size of your mouth. Dentists recommend most adults use toothbrushes where the head is a half-inch wide and one-inch tall. This size is easy to maneuver and can reach back into the mouth to clean the back molars. There are bigger toothbrushes, but they’re often harder to guide through the tight spaces of the mouth. If your mouth is smaller than average, choose a brush that is slightly smaller.

Bristles

dentistThere are three main kinds of toothbrush bristles: soft, medium, and hard. For most people, a soft-bristled brush is the best option. They’re designed to be gentle on gums and teeth for a comfortable clean. Hard bristles can be rough on the mouth and damage tooth enamel. If soft-bristled brushes don’t seem to get the job done, try a medium brush.

Shape

In addition to the size and texture, you can also choose toothbrushes in different shapes and with different bristle patterns. For example, brushes with bristles aligned in a diagonal pattern are designed to clean the sides of teeth along the gum line. Toothbrushes with longer bristles intermixed with shorter bristles are good for cleaning between teeth. If you know you have a problem area where you’re most at risk of getting cavities, you may be able to find a toothbrush specifically designed to help.

 

Instead of spending hours staring at a wall of options, ask your dentist for their expert advice. C.R. Sfeir D.D.S., General Dentistry in Lorain, OH, is always happy to help patients with their general dentistry questions. Schedule a dentist appointment by calling (440) 960-5200, or visit their Facebook for more information.

tracking