Toothbrushes are an essential part of your dental hygiene routine. You should be brushing your teeth at least twice a day. But without the proper toothbrush, your brushing may not be having the effect it should. How do you choose the best toothbrush for yourself? Read on to find out.
Soft Bristles vs. Firm Bristles
Believe it or not, most dentists recommend soft-bristled brushes over firm or hard. Soft bristles make it less likely to harm or irritate your gums while brushing. Even a medium-firm toothbrush could damage your gums if you brush too hard. The wrong type of bristles for your mouth could cause toothbrush abrasion, the loss of enamel, or gum irritation. Besides soft bristles, you should also look for rounded tips on the bristles.
American Dental Association Approved
When choosing a toothbrush for yourself, always make sure the American Dental Association approves it. Brushes that the ADA approves will have the green “ADA Accepted” label on the package. If you’re purchasing any dental product without this label, you can’t be sure it’s safe and effective for your teeth.
Quality vs. Generic or Cheap
Toothbrushes aren’t very expensive. It’s silly to try to save a dollar or two on something important for your oral health. Generic or no-name toothbrushes might be cheaper, but the ADA doesn’t approve them, and they may not be effective or safe for your teeth.
Choose One That You’ll Use
At the end of the day, you want to choose a toothbrush for yourself that you’re likely to use every day. If a toothbrush is uncomfortable to use or just not working for you, ask your dentist for a better recommendation.
Not sure which toothbrush is best for you? Ask Dr. Zola Makrauer or Dr. Julie Miller at Huntingdon Valley Dental Arts. Call for an appointment today!