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The most important tool for maintainin at Oasis Family Dental offer these pointers for finding the best toothbrush for you.

Pick the Right Size for Your Mouth

Ideally, the toothbrush you pick out should be large enough for you to effectively reach and clean every one of your teeth, while the handle needs to be long enough for you to successfully maneuver it in your mouth. The heads of most toothbrushes sold in the stores are an inch long and half-an-inch wide.  For most people, that should work fine.  If it does prove to be the wrong size for you, talk to your dentist about what size he or she recommends.

Check bristle softness

The bristles of most toothbrushes are made of nylon. Most of the commercially available brushes will have soft bristles, which dentists typically recommend. While brushes with harder bristles are available, those bristles are more likely to damage enamel. If your dentist thinks the bristles on your brush should be medium or hard, he or she will tell you. Otherwise, stick with soft bristles.

Electric or Manuel?

Many dentists recommend electric or battery-operated toothbrushes for their patients. These brushes might be ideal for patients who tend to brush more vigorously than recommended with manual brushes, since the electric toothbrush’s vibrations will usually be gentler on the teeth and . Electric brushes are also good for patients with limited dexterity. Many models come with automatic cut-off timers, so you know that you’ve brushed for the recommended two minutes. However, electric toothbrushes and the replacement heads are more expensive than manual toothbrushes. Also, studies indicate that more bacteria tend to enter the bloodstream from the use of electric toothbrushes, which could be a concern for heart patients.

Look for the ADA Seal

No matter what toothbrush you buy, make sure that it has been approved by the American Dental Association. ADA-approved toothbrushes have been tested for safety and effectiveness.

Replacing Your Brush

You should not have a lifelong relationship with your toothbrush. In fact, dentists recommend replacing the brush or, if using an electric one, the head, every three months. You should replace it sooner if the bristles begin showing signs of wear or if you used it while sick. If you have any questions or concerns about which toothbrushes will be the safest and most effective for you, be sure to ask your dentist.

Get Your Full Checkup at Oasis Family Dental

If it is time for your six-month checkup, or you are interested in cosmetic dentistry, The Oasis Family Dental provides comprehensive dental care for our patients of all ages. Contact our 92591 dental office by calling (951) 695-2290 to schedule an appointment today. We welcome patients from Temecula and all surrounding communities.