The first and most significant step in attaining good oral hygiene is finding the right toothbrush. With the different shapes, sizes, and designs of toothbrushes available today, choosing the right one can be confusing. Nevertheless, there are several essential aspects of a good toothbrush that you should consider when purchasing one. This article provides you with some of the things you need to look for when choosing the right toothbrush.
Size
Your toothbrush size matters a lot because it determines how you access the different parts of your teeth. Besides cleaning the exterior of every tooth, a good toothbrush should be able to access even the hard-to-reach spaces, including the back and sides of your mouth. For most grownups, the ideal toothbrush head should be half an inch wide and one inch tall. This size makes it easy for the user to clean even the last molars. If the toothbrush head is too big, it will be difficult for you to maneuver it to clean your mouth’s hidden areas. Also, pay attention to the size of the toothbrush handle. Ideally, the handle should be long enough to allow you to hold it while brushing your teeth comfortably.
Bristles
Ordinarily, toothbrush bristles are made of nylon, which comes in a variety of textures, including hard, soft, and medium. For most people, soft bristles are the safest choice. Dental experts argue that hard and medium nylon bristles can easily damage your gums, protective enamel, and root surface, especially if your teeth are weak or brush them too vigorously. Aside from the texture of the bristles, their shape also matters a lot. Experts recommend toothbrushes with rounded tips because they gently massage the gum tissue instead of assaulting the delicate gum tissue. Studies have shown that if you brush your teeth too hard, you will have sensitive teeth and gums, diminished protective enamel, and recessed gums. That’s why the toothbrush you choose should have bristles that are gentle and nonabrasive.
Durability
Before you purchase a toothbrush, make sure its bristles are durable. Even though you shouldn’t use the same toothbrush for too long, the one you choose should be resilient enough to last for at least three months. The bristles shouldn’t fall out under normal tooth brushing conditions, and the handle should be strong enough to withstand regular use. To be safe, ask your dentist for recommendations. Alternatively, you can check if the toothbrush you intend to buy has the seal of approval from the American Dental Association (ADA).
