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How to Choose the Best Toothbrush for You

If you are considering teeth whitening at our Milford office, you should also think about the best way to maintain your whiter smile after your treatment. Of course, for optimal dental health, you should brush your teeth two to three times a day. However, dental hygiene is not a one-size-fits-all activity; certain toothbrushes may be better for you than others. Choosing the right toothbrush can help to maintain your dental health and sparkling smile, long after your whitening treatment.

Choosing the Right Toothbrush

When choosing a toothbrush, dentists have certain guidelines for nearly every patient. First, you should select a toothbrush with soft bristles; hard bristles can actually erode your enamel, irritate your gums, and cause tooth sensitivity. Second, you should choose a toothbrush that has an ADA (American Dental Academy) Seal of Approval. This Seal ensures that your toothbrush has passed rigorous safety inspections and has been tested for effectiveness and comfort. In addition to these two general rules, there are also other considerations and personal preferences to keep in mind, including:

  • Size – You should choose a toothbrush that allows you to easily access all parts of your mouth. Most adults find that a toothbrush head about half an inch wide and one inch tall is the easiest to use. However, you may find that a smaller or larger toothbrush works better for you.
  • Shape – Toothbrush handles come in a variety of shapes and lengths. Some have no-slip coatings, as well. The type of handle you choose is largely a personal preference; choose one that feels comfortable in your hands and is long enough that it can reach your back teeth.
  • Mechanical vs. manual – Both mechanical and traditional toothbrushes can be equally effective. However, if you have limited dexterity, you may find that a mechanical toothbrush enables you to brush your teeth more thoroughly.

Caring for Your Toothbrush

No matter which type of toothbrush you choose, proper care and maintenance is essential to your dental health. Brushing with an ill-maintained toothbrush can be worse for your dental health than choosing the wrong toothbrush in the first place. First, you should change your toothbrush every three months, or when it begins to show signs of wear. After brushing, you should thoroughly rinse off your toothbrush and store it in an upright position. Additionally, moist toothbrushes can be a haven for bacteria. Though the ADA has found little evidence that toothbrushes actually lead to the spread of disease, they do urge caution in caring for your toothbrush and protecting yourself from illness. In particular, you should never share toothbrushes or store them in airtight containers. You should also be sure to change out your toothbrush after you recover from a cold, sore throat, or the flu.

For more oral hygiene tips or to find out more about teeth whitening treatment, call Sensitive Care Cosmetic & Family Dentistry at 203-878-6699. We are proud to serve patients in Milford and the surrounding areas.

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