With a variety of brushes on the market today, it can be challenging to find the best toothbrush to maintain your oral health. You can choose from rows and rows of manual, electric, or battery-powered brushes to clean your teeth and gums.
Purchasing the right brush will help your oral health tremendously. In the end, clean teeth and gums have a positive effect on your overall well-being. Our Newbury Park dentistry wants you to have a healthy smile that will boost your confidence. In this blog, you’ll find information about electric and manual toothbrushes and tips for choosing the brush for you.
Electric vs. Manual Toothbrushes
Manual Toothbrushes
The most commonly used teeth-cleaning device is a manual toothbrush. The manual brush can be purchased anywhere at gas stations, pharmacies, and grocery stores. Many people use this cost-effective tool because it does a great job of cleaning teeth and preventing decay. This type of brush also allows users to manage their brushing speed.
Some of the essential things to look for in a manual toothbrush include sturdy bristles and a handle that can withstand daily use. Packaging that has the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance ensures its legitimacy.
Battery Powered or Electric Toothbrushes
Electric toothbrushes have a vibrating brush head that gently cleans the surface of your teeth. This type of brush does all the work of removing plaque buildup. All you have to do is guide your brush along with your teeth and gums for a clean smile.
This type of brush is excellent for people who are unable to brush rapidly like senior citizens or for those who have a hand or wrist injury. Children who have trouble cleaning their teeth with manual toothbrushes should opt for an electric brush.
An electric toothbrush can solve insufficient teeth cleaning and save you from a trip to the dental office for tooth decay or gum disease.
How to Choose the Perfect Toothbrush
- Find the Perfect Size
The right toothbrush should be able to access all surfaces of your smile comfortably. Adults should purchase a brush with a head that is at least a half-inch wide and one-inch tall for easy use. Although larger brush heads are available, they are unable to reach the backs and sides of your molars.
- Consider the Bristle Type
With each toothbrush comes different bristles types. Toothbrushes have soft, medium, or hard bristles. A soft-bristled toothbrush is a comfortable and safe choice for our patients
Medium or hard-bristle brushes can damage your tooth enamel and gums if applied pressure.
- Weigh the Costs
There is no doubt that electric toothbrushes cost more than manual ones. In addition to the upfront expense, you will need to replace the removable brush head as often as you renew your manual toothbrush. Newbury Dental Group recommends that you should not compromise your oral hygiene by using a cheap brush.
- Favorability
The best toothbrush is the one that you are going to use regularly. Some patients might find the vibrating feeling of a powered brush too harsh. Others find the electric types to clean all teeth effectively.
- Consult with a Thousand Oaks Dentist
If you are having trouble choosing the right toothbrush, consult with a Thousand Oaks Dentist for the best recommendation. The combination of the perfect brush and proper brushing technique can reduce plaque and keep your gums healthy until your next dental checkup.