How to Choose the Best Toothbrush
From the time that we’re children, we’re told that using a toothbrush daily is one of the best decisions we can make for our oral health. We’re told that itprevents cavitiesand gum disease. One thing that we’re not told, however, is exactly whatkindof toothbrush we’re supposed to choose. Lucky for you, a dentist in Bridgeport is here with some things to consider when making that selection.
Size
The best toothbrush head for you should let you easily access all the surfaces of your teeth. For most adults, a head a half-inch wide and one inch tall should be perfectly fine. Even though there are plenty of larger-sized heads available, it might be hard to maneuver those heads to clean the backs and sides of your molars. The brush handle should be long enough to comfortably fit in your hand.
Bristle Variety
Most toothbrushes in stores have their bristles labeled as either soft, medium, or hard. For most people, soft bristles are all that is needed to achieve a thorough clean. In fact, depending on how strong your teeth are and how vigorously you brush, a medium- or hard-bristled brush could do more harm than good by wearing down your enamel and gum tissue.
Cost
Electric toothbrushes generally cost quite a bit more than their manual counterparts. In addition to this higher up-front cost, you’ll also have to replace the brush head just as often as you would replace a manual toothbrush (every three months). However, if a powered brush helps keep your teeth cleaner, you might save money on dental bills down the road.
Likeability
Ultimately, the best toothbrush for you is one you’re actually going to use. Some people may not be fans of the vibration of electric brushes, while some might find that it helps their pearly whites stay clean. This may be especially true for people with mobility issues like arthritis. If using your toothbrush is enjoyable, you’re more likely to brush for the recommended two minutes. Some electric brushes even have built-in timers to let you know exactly how long you should use them.
If you’re still having trouble deciding which brush is right for you, it never hurts to ask your dentist in Bridgeport. They can recommend the brand that would suit your mouth best.
About the Practice
Your health and safety have always been our number one priority at Curtis Family Dentistry in Bridgeport, CT. That’s why Dr. Nizi Gupta and Dr. Michael Curtis do everything they can to see you as soon as possible after your dental emergency, preferably within hours of you calling our office. Alongside years of experience in handling complex dental urgent care, they’re also proud to offer the most advanced dental technology and sedation dentistry. If you or a loved one is experiencing a dental emergency, please don’t hesitate to contact them via theirwebsiteor at (203) 372-4296.