How to choose a toothbrush and when it needs to be changed? Well, this could be a common concern for many of us. Choosing a right toothbrush as well as replacing it at the right time is essential for good oral hygiene, for all age groups. Unlike in the past, today we can find an extensive range of toothbrushes in the market. This could make it difficult for you to choose a right toothbrush. We thought of helping you out through this article.
Toothbrush as an oral hygiene instrument
A toothbrush is an oral hygiene instrument that removes plaque and food debris from teeth and gums. Dentists recommend toothbrushes with small-heads because they move around in the mouth easily. Small-headed toothbrushes can reach all regions in the mouth including the back most teeth.
Most dentists recommend medium or soft-bristled toothbrushes. The soft-bristled ones do not cause injury or damage to teeth and gums. Extra-soft bristled toothbrushes are good for those who have sensitive teeth or have had recent dental treatment. Many people believe hard-bristled ones are effective in cleansing plaque. Brushing with a hard-bristled brush too vigorously can make teeth sensitive. Soft and extra-soft bristled toothbrushes are best for effective brushing.
The shape of bristle needs to be wavy, flat or trimmed to a dome shape. These are effective in cleaning teeth and gums. For better teeth protection you can also go for bristles with rounded tips. As far as the handle is concerned, it should be non-slippery so that it is easy to hold when it is wet.
When to change your toothbrush?
American Dental Association (ADA) recommends to replace your toothbrush when it starts wearing or once in every three months, whichever happens first. A worn-out toothbrush cannot clean the teeth properly and can also damage gum tissue. It is also important to replace your toothbrush whenever you recover from an illness, especially from infections like cold, flu, throat infection, etc., because the bristles may have disease causing germs, which when you re-use, after recovery can make you sick again.
A new toothbrush improves oral hygiene by removing 30% more plaque than a brush that has been used for more than three months.
Brush teeth every day in front of a mirror to make sure that you cover every tooth. Brushing twice a day will not only keep your oral hygiene but will also enable you to speak and smile with confidence.
