Here are some things to consider to make sure you’re maintaining your teeth!

By now you likely know how important at-home dental care is to protect your smile. It’s crucial to stay on top of your oral hygiene routine to prevent dental problems from popping up. This includes flossing regularly, using mouthwash, and, of course, brushing your teeth. But what type of toothbrush should you use for the all-important step of brushing those pearly whites?

Consider the Size of the Brush Head

There are many sizes of brush heads available, but they are not all created equal! It’s best to get a brush head that is about one inch tall and half an inch wide. There are often larger brush heads available, but if you get a toothbrush that is too much bigger, it’s often more difficult to clean hard-to-reach areas of your mouth, like your back molars. If you’re unsure about the size of your toothbrush, you can always ask your dentist at one of your regularly scheduled teeth cleanings and we’ll be happy to help! We often can give you a toothbrush that is the recommended size at your visit, too.

Consider the Type of Bristles

When it comes to the bristles on your toothbrush, you might think they are all the same when there are, in fact, some differences between the different types of toothbrush bristles on the market. There are typically three different types of bristle stiffness--soft, medium, and hard. Soft bristles are what we recommend for most people. Harder bristles can be too rough at times, especially when it comes to your gums.

Consider if You Want a Manual or Electric Toothbrush

There are benefits and drawbacks to both types of toothbrushes, but this consideration largely depends on what you prefer. The thing to keep in mind when comparing a manual versus an electric toothbrush is convenience for you. Which type of toothbrush will help you remember to brush your teeth at least twice per day, as recommended? If an electric toothbrush will help you be more consistent in your oral hygiene routine, then that might just be the toothbrush for you!

Consider any Expert Recommendations

An expert recommendation can come from your personal dentist, like one of our experts here at G Dental 32, or it can be in the form of a stamp of approval on the toothbrush packaging itself. Many toothbrushes, including both manual and electric options, will be marked with the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Approval if they’ve been examined and approved by the organization. This is a great thing to keep in mind when you’re perusing the toothbrush aisle at your local store!

Brushing your teeth is probably the most important step to take when it comes to maintaining (and even improving) your oral hygiene. Thoroughly brushing your teeth at least twice a day can prevent a host of dental problems and help keep your teeth looking amazing. When making the decision of what toothbrush to use for your daily routine, keep these four considerations in mind to make sure you’re taking the best care of your teeth possible.