Here at Foxbury Dental, we know that maintaining good oral health is crucial for a beautiful smile and overall well-being. One of the key elements in maintaining optimal oral health is selecting the right toothbrush. In this guide, we’re going to discuss how to choose the right toothbrush for you and your smile.
Electric vs Manual Toothbrush
One of the first big decisions to make is whether to choose an electric or manual toothbrush. Here’s what you need to know…
Back in 2014, a comprehensive review of multiple studies was carried out. The studies consisted of 56 clinical trials of unsupervised brushing across 5000 adults and children. The results found that users of an electric toothbrush experienced a slight 6% reduction in gingivitis vs manual brushes after 1-3 months of use and an 11% reduction thereafter.
In 2019, a large single study carried out by researchers at the University of Medicine Greifswald in Germany backed up these findings when they concluded that a powered toothbrush slightly reduced the progression of periodontal disease over an 11-year period in those taking part.
That said, most dentists advise that you can still brush well with a manual toothbrush. If you attend regular check-ups and your dentist is confident that you’re doing a good job, there’s no real need to change.
So, while manual toothbrushes require a little more effort, they can be equally as effective in keeping plaque at bay and your teeth and gums healthy – particularly when you adopt a method known as the modified base technique.
So, in the electric vs manual debate, it’s really about how you want to take those findings, plus other factors like…
- What you’re currently used to; and
- Cost – How much you want to pay.
Now, Let’s Talk About Bristles!
One of the key elements in maintaining good oral hygiene doesn’t lie in the power of your toothbrush. Instead, it’s all about the bristles. Toothbrushes (and toothbrush heads) typically come in three varieties, hard, medium and soft.
Contrary to popular belief, there is no scientific proof that hard bristles are more effective at removing plaque. In fact, what we do know is that they can erode tooth enamel and damage gums. As such, we would advise staying clear of hard bristles.
So that just leaves medium and soft…
Medium bristles are perhaps a good choice for those requiring greater scrubbing power for thorough cleaning and who don’t have sensitive teeth. However, care should be taken around the gums.
Conversely, soft bristles are the ideal all-round brush head and one that most dentists recommend. They’re ideal for children and adults alike and are best suited to those with some degree of gum recession, inflammation or tooth sensitivity.
Top tip… When looking for the right level of softness, consider a toothbrush with multi-layers or angled bristles. Oh, and don’t forget to change the brush or head every 3-4 months or when it appears worn.
How do you know if it’s worn?
If you turn the brush over onto its base and look at the head of the brush from underneath, you may start to see bristles poking out from the edges and sides of the brush. When this happens, it’s time to swap it out for a new one.
How To Choose The Right Toothbrush Based On Size and Shape
Hopefully, by now you’ve determined whether you prefer a manual or electric toothbrush and softer or medium bristles but what do you look for in the perfect toothbrush in terms of shape and size?
Every mouth is different which is why most manufacturers provide toothbrushes in a variety of sizes and shapes. While rectangular shapes are common, compact oval shapes or angled heads can have a better reach. Essentially, there is no right or wrong answer. Instead, try to choose a brush head that’s comfortable for you.
While larger heads tend to cover more surface area, they might not be as comfortable if you have a smaller mouth. Additionally, if you struggle to reach certain areas of your mouth, a smaller compact brush head may be the way forward.
The same applies to the toothbrush handle. Again there’s no right or wrong. Instead, choose one with a handle or base that feels balanced and comfortable in the hand.
Finally, your dentist may also suggest using interdental brushes (small brushes made of filaments), particularly if you wear braces or have misaligned teeth. If this is the case, they should be able to recommend a particular type for you.
The Best Toothbrush Is The One You’ll Use!
The most important thing to remember when considering how to choose the right toothbrush is that the best one for you is the one you’ll use. The most expensive toothbrush doesn’t always mean it’s the right option for you. Sure, it may have all the bells and whistles but if you aren’t going to use them, it might not be worth the extra cost.
Instead, consider a couple of pointers to make your toothbrushing effective and safe…
- Keep your toothbrush clean by rinsing it with cold water after every use
- Don’t store in an enclosed case or container – The moist environment could promote bacterial growth.
- Do store your toothbrush upright in a well-ventilated environment
- Change either the brush head or the entire toothbrush (if manual) regularly.
- Most importantly, use recognised brushing techniques and ensure a thorough but gentle cleaning of your teeth and gums.
Still Confused?
With so many factors to consider, it’s not always easy to know how to choose the right toothbrush. But don’t worry; Foxbury Dental is here to help. As a fully private dental clinic, we’re not governed by patient quotas and restraints. This means we have the time to spend with you ensuring you’re fully informed about your oral health and how to maintain it so we’re able to make recommendations based on your unique dental needs. Whether you’re considering the benefits of electric vs manual toothbrushes, need guidance on tooth sensitivity issues, or want to find out the best way to brush to ensure proper cleaning, come and talk to Carmen and her friendly team today. We’re here to help you maintain your smile, so call us on 01858 455 100 or visit us online to schedule an appointment today!
