What to Consider When Buying a New Toothbrush

Buying a new toothbrush may seem as simple as tossing one into your shopping basket. While any toothbrush is better than no toothbrush, picking the right toothbrush is actually a little more complicated. You want to pick a comfortable toothbrush that you can easily hold and will reliably use. You want one that will remove the most plaque without causing damage to your mouth. To get the right one, you need to consider a few different factors.

Do you want manual or electric?

Most dentists will tell you that electric toothbrushes are better than manual ones. People just cannot make as many micromovements as an electric toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes are better at removing plaque and reducing the risk of gingivitis. However, they can be too expensive for some people. Plus, some people simply do not like using them. A manual toothbrush that you will use is a better choice than an electric toothbrush that you will not use. So, consider which one is better for you.

What bristle strength do you want?

You might think that you want the stiffest, hardest bristles to really scrub your teeth. However, those stiff bristles can be really hard on your gums. They can even damage your teeth. Instead, choose soft bristles. A soft bristle brush can thoroughly clean your teeth without causing any damage.

Does the toothbrush have an ADA seal?

The ADA, the American Dental Association, gives seals of approval to products that meet their standards. These items may be more expensive than their competitors. However, you can rely on their efficacy and quality.

Are you a big mouth?

You might think bigger is better, but you actually want the head of the brush to match the size of your mouth. If you cannot get at all sides of all of your teeth, you may need a smaller brush. You should also consider the shape of the brush. Toothbrushes come in tapered, round, and rectangle shapes. None of them are necessarily better than the others. You just want one that works well in your mouth.

How does it feel to hold it?

Is the grip comfortable? Thicker handles are better for people with grip or mobility issues, while smaller handles may be better for smaller hands. You want a toothbrush that you can hold and move comfortably.

Still not sure? Ask us. We can help you pick the right toothbrush for your personal needs. We may even have some free samples in stock to share with you!

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