How to choose the ideal toothbrush?
Choosing a toothbrush may seem simple, but due to the wide variety of brands and features, we often feel overwhelmed and confused about which one is the most suitable for us, realizing that there are many doubts, and as a result, we typically end up buying the first toothbrush we come across.
Regardless of the model, color, and brand, there are some basic features that should be considered when making a purchase.
Bristle Firmness
The bristle firmness should be Medium or Soft. Some people still believe that a hard toothbrush is the best choice for brushing because it provides superior cleaning action. This concept is incorrect! When brushing technique is done correctly, a soft brush can clean just as well, if not better, than a brush with firmer bristles. Additionally, hard bristles are more likely to damage soft tissues (gums and mucous membranes), especially when brushing the areas where the tooth meets the gum.
Therefore, medium or soft brushes are recommended for individuals with no oral problems and are particularly useful for those with sensitive teeth or gum recession as they provide greater comfort and gentleness during brushing while effectively removing plaque and food particles that accumulate between the teeth. Hard-bristled brushes are better suited for individuals with dental prosthetics.
There are also ultra-soft bristle brushes, which are recommended for post-surgery oral hygiene.
Bristles / Filaments
Ideally, the bristles/filaments should all be the same length. In some cases, another variation may be more suitable, such as for patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. The filaments can be made of silicone, nylon, or another synthetic material and can have various shapes – tapered, rounded, polished – and different firmness levels. It is important to consider that it is preferable to choose filaments that dry more quickly.
Head
The ideal size for a toothbrush head is one that suits the age group, with smaller-headed brushes always being the best option, as they allow better access to the more posterior areas, such as wisdom teeth, and a head that is too large does not allow easy access to all dental surfaces.
Some toothbrushes have a surface with small ridges on the back of the head that help clean the tongue and even the cheeks. However, there are specific brushes designed for tongue cleaning.
There are also options on the market for toothbrushes with flexible heads. These are particularly interesting for individuals with gum recession as they reduce the pressure applied during brushing, thus preventing worsening of this condition.
Handle
The anatomical handle should be comfortable and ergonomic so that it can be held firmly and comfortably. For those who have the habit of brushing their teeth with excessive force, it is recommended to use brushes with flexible handles.
Toothbrushes should also be easy to clean and made from waterproof materials.
Another question that many patients ask is: which is better, manual or electric?
If you choose a manual toothbrush, as already explained, you should ensure that it is medium or soft – a hard brush may seem more effective, but it can cause gum injuries and be too aggressive on enamel, leading to tooth wear. You should also consider that the smaller the head, the easier and more effectively you will be able to clean the more posterior and difficult-to-reach areas.
On the other hand, electric toothbrushes, due to their smaller round head and pulsation, oscillation, and/or rotation movements, are able to provide a more reliable and effective cleaning. Additionally, most electric toothbrushes have timers to monitor the brushing time, ensuring that the minimum brushing time of 2 minutes is achieved.
Another feature is that most electric toothbrushes now come with sensors that detect when excessive force is applied during brushing. This feature is particularly useful and a great option for patients with gum recession.
In summary, the best toothbrush is the one that allows for proper oral hygiene, meeting the individual’s needs and preferences regarding size, hardness, and texture; it should be easy to handle, flexible, easy to clean, quick to dry, and durable. The key is to brush properly and effectively.
If you still have doubts, consult us, we would be happy to assist and assess the best choice and ideal oral hygiene habits to adopt.
