Jarred K. Donald, DDS
16631 Coit Rd #114
Dallas, TX 75248
972-818-4300
888-49-SMILE
Patient Education - General Dentist Information in Dallas
Choosing a Toothbrush
Never before has there been such a dizzying array of toothbrushes on
the market. Consumers are inundated with new designs, materials,
attachments, and colors.
Whatever toothbrush design you choose, the most important
thing is that you use the toothbrush-at least two or three times a day.
Toothbrushes accomplish one major purpose: removing plaque. A good
quality toothbrush with well-made bristles will accomplish that.
Moreover, how long you spend brushing your teeth is as
critical as how often you brush your teeth. Many people simply brush
for a few seconds, spit, and place the toothbrush back in the cup. It
is very important to spend at least 2-3 minutes brushing your teeth.
This helps to ensure that the brush doesn't miss hard-to-reach or often
neglected surfaces. Use short, circular motions and brush at a
45-degree angle.
Following are some tips for choosing a toothbrush:
- Choose toothbrushes with soft, round-headed bristles Avoid big-headed toothbrushes. Dental associations recommend that you buy a toothbrush with a compact head-1 by 1/2-so you can easily reach the small areas of your mouth.
- Some toothbrushes today have wide handles. This helps you
control the toothbrush better. So, choose a toothbrush with a handle
that is long enough and wide enough for you to handle.
You should replace your toothbrush at least four times a year-more
often if you have been sick.
Electric vs. Manual Toothbrushes
There are a wide variety of electric toothbrushes on the market today. Some are even disposable. A few models have even received positive reviews by the American Dental Association.
Electric toothbrushes, for the most part, can be just as effective as the old-fashioned, non-powered varieties. Some studies have shown electric toothbrushes cover more area quickly because of their rapid, rotating bristles.
If only the novelty of them, electric toothbrushes may encourage more frequent brushing among people who normally hate to brush. They also may be advantageous for people who have arthritis, or for children with braces who find it more difficult to navigate around the appliances with a manual toothbrush.
A few things to remember about electric toothbrushes: Some are expensive; nearly all cost more than a conventional toothbrush. They also require recharging. And most people who use an electric toothbrush for the first time may experience a little bleeding from the powerful bristle action on their gums. In most cases, the bleeding will stop after a few uses.
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