One Size Does Not Fit All: Toothbrushes

When walking down the oral care products aisle, the number of choices can be overwhelming. It can be easy to fall into the trap of purchasing "the same old thing" because exploring different options without guidance is daunting and frustrating. Here are a few tips to keep in mind the next time you are in the market for a new brush and want to make an improvement for your mouth that won't break the bank.

1. Always SOFT (or extra soft). It has always been a mystery to dentists and hygienists why oral care companies decide to manufacture anything other than the soft toothbrush. Soft toothbrush bristles are the correct firmness to efficiently remove plaque while gentle enough to prevent damage to enamel and gum tissue. Extra soft can be useful in specific situations where gum tissue may be extra sensitive due to a condition or post-dental treatment; most dental professionals will specifically prescribe it for patients who would benefit from the gentler bristles.
2. Bigger is not always better. In fact, for kids and teens, a smaller brush head is almost always better. Smaller brush heads allow you to more easily access awkward areas which are often neglected areas of the mouth. In adults, this is commonly behind the front teeth (upper and lower) and the last molars in the back of the mouth. In teenagers who may be undergoing orthodontic treatment, the smaller brush head fits in hard to reach places around wires or other appliances in the mouth that can trap plaque. For kids just starting to brush independently, a smaller brush is a great training tool for focusing on only a couple teeth at once and taking the time to brush every tooth.
3. New brush head every 3 months. Though your brush head may "look OK" after 3 months of use, it has likely become a petri dish of bacteria and other germs. Bacteria are the culprits of most damaging oral conditions such as cavities, gingivitis, and periodontitis. If your toothbrush head is past is expiration, keep in mind that it may be introducing bacteria back into your mouth every time you brush. In addition, prolonged use distorts the bristles in toothbrush heads, reducing the efficiency with which they remove plaque.

A common question dental professionals are often asked is "manual or electric toothbrush"? Studies show that both are equally effective when used properly. Those last three words are key because we often find ourselves distracted while brushing, not brushing for a full two minutes, or otherwise not practicing accurate brushing technique every single time. This is where an electric toothbrush can pick up some of the slack and perform better than regular manual brushes.

Lastly, keeping a great toothbrush routine doesn't have to be expensive or a chore. There are many subscription companies that offer great products at a reasonable price, delivered to your home every 3 months. At NFO, we partner with Quip to provide our patients with an effective and reliable toothbrush at a fantastic price. If you are in the market for a new brush, check out Quip and get your first toothbrush refill for free: www.getquip.com/nfobrush.

Happy brushing!