Confused Which Toothbrush You Should Be Buying?

Choosing a new toothbrush can be an overwhelming decision and it can be hard to know where to start when you find yourself standing in the toothbrush aisle at the supermarket. At Subiaco Dental Practice we are often asked “which toothbrush should I be using?”.

So, what should you look for in a new toothbrush?

• Electric or manual toothbrush
  The choice is yours! The effectiveness of a toothbrush depends on how well you are using it to remove the plaque and bacteria. At Subiaco Dental Practice we often recommend an electric toothbrush because they can be easier to use. With an electric toothbrush it is a matter of letting the toothbrush do the work for you and just moving the brush from tooth-to-tooth. However, with a manual toothbrush you are responsible for making the small circle motions, as well as moving it tooth-to-tooth.
• Small head
  A small headed toothbrush is best. It makes it easier to reach all the way to back teeth and to get into tight areas.
• Soft head
  At Subiaco Dental Practice we always recommend a soft or extra-soft head. This is because anything harder can damage your teeth and gums overtime.
• Replacing your toothbrush
  Toothbrushes should be replaced at least every three-months, or when the bristles begin to look frayed and shabby. Also, if you have been sick, at Subiaco Dental Practice we also recommend replacing your toothbrush afterwards, as who knows what bacteria could be hiding in the bristles.

Oh, and yes, a lot of toothbrush have little rubber bits and bristles that go in all directions, but you don’t have to worry too much about these.

A plain, simple toothbrush is sufficient, as long as you have good technique and are brushing twice a day for at least two-minutes.

If you are ever unsure which toothbrush you should be using, just ask our friendly dentist or oral health therapist at Subiaco Dental Practice, as we are always here to help you. Together the Subiaco Dental Practice team can also help you to identify areas your toothbrush may be missing and can demonstrate to you the best toothbrushing techniques.

So, don’t let the toothbrush aisle overwhelm you any longer!