What kind of toothbrush do you use? Do you prefer electric or manual? Soft or hard bristles? These are the common questions your dental care provider will likely ask you at your semi-annual appointment, and it’s for good reason.
Everyone has different dental care needs and preferences, and there is no “one size fits all” option when it comes to oral hygiene. It’s helpful to understand the different kinds of toothbrushes to make informed decisions about what type will best match your specific needs. Our Gulf Coast Dental team is dedicated to ensuring our patients have reliable resources to help optimize their oral health.
Electric vs Manual Toothbrush
The choice between a disposable or rechargeable toothbrush mostly depends on preference, but sometimes your dentist may recommend one over the other for specific reasons. It may even be easier or more comfortable for some people to use a particular choice because of limited dexterity or other physical hindrances.
Manual
Manual brushes tend to work better for people who have very sensitive teeth, as well as those who simply desire a less expensive option. These are also a good option for people who:
- Frequently lose or replace their toothbrush
- Travel often
- Want better brushing control
- Prefer to adjust pressure in certain areas
- Prefer easy maintenance (no charging or swapping heads)
Some people also like manual toothbrushes simply because it’s what they’re used to. Whatever your reason, the most important thing to keep in mind is that you dedicate the time to brush your teeth at least twice daily, for two minutes each time for effective cleaning.
Electric
Many people have made the switch to an electric toothbrush to enhance their daily brushing routine. There are a variety of benefits to using this option, including a deeper clean as well as utilizing special settings to personalize your brushing experience. Some other reasons might be:
- Bluetooth capability
- Built-in timers
- Consistent power and pressure
- Easier for those with certain disabilities
- Long-term reduction of waste
This is the perfect option for people who enjoy upgraded and personalizable features. When you choose to use an electric toothbrush, you’ll have confidence that your teeth and gums are healthy, clean and properly cared for to help prevent future oral health issues.
Your Bristles Matter
The bristles on your toothbrush play an important role in the removal of plaque and food particles from your teeth. Dentists usually recommend using soft bristle brushes to prevent unintentionally using too much force on your gums while brushing and harming them.
People tend to think that just because bristles are stiffer, they’ll get a better clean, but this is not the case. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends adults use angled, soft-bristle toothbrushes as part of their daily routine for optimal cleaning. The softer bristles do a more efficient job of cleaning your teeth and also protecting your gums, increasing your likelihood of maintaining a healthy mouth.
Family Dental Care Practice In Gulfport
Knowing the right kind of toothbrush to purchase is the first step in establishing an effective brushing routine. The more you like to use your toothbrush, the more likely you are to want to use it, after all!
If you’re unsure about what toothbrush is best for you or ready to schedule a routine tooth cleaning, call our professional Gulf Coast Dental team today!
