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What to Buy?

Which Toothbrush is Best?

Select a brush appropriate for the size of the mouth and the brusher.

Initially a brush with a longer handle will be more comfortable. Because of the few teeth and a small oral cavity, a smaller head will be most convenient. Soft bristles should always be selected over coarse or hard ones.

Soft or Hard Bristles?

In general, a toothbrush head should be small (1" by 1/2") for easy access to all areas of the mouth, teeth and gums. It should have a long, wide handle for a firm grasp and soft, nylon bristles with round ends. Some brushes are too abrasive and can wear down teeth. A soft, rounded, multi-tufted brush can clean teeth effectively. Press just firmly enough to reach the spaces between the teeth as well as the surface. Medium and hard bristles are not recommended.

How Do I Choose and Use a Toothbrush?

Angled heads, raised bristles, oscillating tufts: you name it, toothbrushes come in all shapes, colors and sizes, promising to perform better than the rest. But there is no evidence that any one type of toothbrush design is better at removing plaque than another.

The only thing that matters is that you brush your teeth. Many people just don't brush long enough. Most of us brush less than a minute, but to effectively reach all areas and scrub off cavity-causing bacteria, it is recommended to brush for two to three minutes. Don't forget to visit your dentist regularly because tooth brushing and flossing is most effective with periodic checkups and cleanings.

Electric or Manual Toothbrush?

Electric toothbrushes are not better than manual toothbrushes, but they do motivate some reluctant brushers to clean their teeth more often. The whizzing sounds of an electric toothbrush and the tingle of the rotary tufts swirling across teeth and gums often captivate people who own electric toothbrushes.

They are advantageous because they can cover more area faster. Electric toothbrushes are recommended for people who have limited manual dexterity, such as a disabled or elderly person and those who wear braces. Sometimes, it takes more time and effort to use an electric toothbrush because batteries must be recharged and it must be cleaned after every use.