If your toothbrush is starting to show signs of deterioration or has been used for more than three months, it’s time to replace it. Today, we are bombarded with all the different types of toothbrushes sold on the market. How do you know which is the right one?

Toothbrush

Brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste is the cornerstone of good oral health. After brushing your teeth, store your toothbrush upright to allow circulation.  There are many styles to choose from but always look for the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of acceptance when choosing toothbrushes.

Electric or Manual? 

The difference in performance between electric and manual toothbrushes isn’t significant and should be based on personal preference. Both tools are used to reduce plaque and gingivitis. 

• Manual toothbrushes are generally cheaper and require no electricity but are still effective at cleaning teeth.
• Electric toothbrushes are a good choice for patients with limited dexterity or who tend to brush too aggressively.

It’s All in the Head

Large-headed toothbrushes can scrub more surface area at once but can sometimes miss the different angles in your oral cavity. Small-headed toothbrushes are ideal for detailing the curves of your mouth and reaching all areas of the mouth, including back teeth.

Soft, medium, or hard? Using too hard of a toothbrush can permanently damage your teeth and push back your gums. Hard bristles can remove plaque better but cause more soft tissue trauma. Thicker medium and hard bristles can be too harsh on most enamel and gums. 

Most dentists and hygienists stand by the fact that soft-bristled toothbrushes are most suitable for gently removing plaque and debris from teeth.

You Have It Handled

Handles come in many styles and dexterities. Depending on your desires and lifestyle, you may want a handle with the following qualities:

• Non-Slip Grip
• Angled
• Flexible Neck

Strut your stuff with unique color options. Children’s toothbrushes are often accompanied by popular characters. This is your opportunity to have fun and flex your personal style!

Floss

If you feel apathetic towards flossing, you’re not alone. Only one-third of the U.S. population floss their teeth on a daily basis. Despite indifference towards flossing, flossing is essential to caring for your whole health. Floss helps dislodge bits of food and plaque that can’t be reached by a toothbrush which can prevent gingivitis, cavities, and bad breath. Flossing can also decrease your risk of heart disease and diabetes. Flossing has evolved over the years and some options include several options: 

• String Floss: Cheapest, most common option, but can be challenging to reach the molars.
• Water Floss: Easy to use for patients with limited dexterity or dental work (like braces and bridges), but can be expensive and difficult to use outside of your home.
• Dental Picks: Can dislodge food in the hard-to-reach back of mouth, but limited with slight scraping motion to get rid of bacteria.

Mouthwash

Mouthwashes are more than a cure for bad breath. When paired with twice-daily brushing and flossing, mouthwash can help reduce your risk of developing:  

• Cavities 
• Plaque
• Tartar
• Gingivitis
• Periodontitis

Mouthwashes can also be used to brighten teeth and control bacteria overgrowth, but it should never replace daily brushing and flossing.

Tongue Scrapers

It only takes 10 seconds a day to improve your overall wellness and taste buds. A tongue scraper is an oral hygiene device invented to wipe away food debris, bacteria, fungi, dead cells, and toxins from the exterior of your tongue. Tongue scrapers can: 

• Improve bad breath and overall dental health
• Enhance the flavors of food by exposing your taste buds
• Boost your immune and digestive systems

Schedule a Consultation Now

If you would like to know more about your at-home dental treatment options, call (559) 732-4543 or message us online to schedule an appointment with Dr. Swanson.