Does the right tooth brush really matter?

When it comes to taking care of your oral health, your options are almost endless. You can choose between various types of toothbrushes, toothpaste brands and flavors, and so on. 

But, do any of these choices have a true impact on your oral health? Does choosing a certain type of toothbrush help you clean your teeth better? 

Most dentists agree that if you brush your teeth two times a day for at least two minutes, then the type of toothbrush you are using won't have that much of an impact. But, the issue is that most people aren't very diligent about their oral health care routine and they either skip brushing their teeth or do a superficial job. And, for these reasons, you may want to be a bit more careful next time when you pick up your toothbrush. 

Keep in mind, that good oral hygiene is not enough to keep your teeth healthy. You also need to visit your dentist regularly for preventive care. 

Without further ado, here's what to keep in mind. 

Opt for Soft or Medium Bristles 

Hard bristles can put too much pressure on your gums and hurt them. Soft bristles, while gentle enough for your gums, may not provide the most thorough cleaning. A medium-bristles toothbrush seems like the best compromise between the two. It's gentle enough to protect your gums but strong enough to clean the enamel and prevent plaque buildup. 

Choose a Toothbrush With a Smaller Head

The reason why most dentists recommend the use of a toothbrush with a small head is that it's easier to maneuver it and reach to the back of your mouth. The molars in particular are harder to reach and clean and a toothbrush with a small head could make this job easier. 

Electric or Manual Toothbrush? 

Most dentists agree that a manual toothbrush can be just as effective as an electric one. The problem is most people don't really know how to use a manual one correctly. You should keep the toothbrush at a 45 degrees angle and swipe from the gum toward the tooth for about five seconds on each quadrant. This way, by the time you clean all your teeth, on every surface, two minutes will have passed.

Unfortunately, most people just swipe their teeth left and right quickly, which doesn't really help remove plaque. For this reason, you may be recommended to use an electric toothbrush, as the vibrations combined with the swiping can help remove the plaque. 

What Else You Can Do to Maintain Your Oral Health? 

In addition to brushing your teeth properly, you should also see your dentist at least every year for routine checks. Even if you don't have any cavities, the dentist can provide a more in-depth cleaning and reach areas that you can't with a regular toothbrush or flossing. 

At Shook Family Dental, you can find a one-stop dental shop for all your family's dental issues. 

Get in touch with us, tell us what your problem is, and book your consultation now.