Keeping our teeth clean should be a priority when you wake up every day and at night before bed. In order to keep an effective brushing routine, it is important to choose a toothbrush that works well for you and will help in your fight against cavities. Marketing campaigns are often introducing “New & Improved!” toothbrush models, colors, and mechanical versions. Our Cary Family Dentistry wants to help you wade through these options and find the one right for you.
Traditional Toothbrushes:
The overall design of toothbrushes has remained fairly similar over the years, with the exception of new colors, handles and bristle types. For the most part, you can ignore the shape of the handle. This is because the head of the toothbrush is the workhorse that helps to keep your mouth clean.
Hard Or Soft Bristles?
A toothbrush should have soft bristles to avoid damaging your gum tissue. Stiff bristles can eventually lead to gum recession and increased root sensitivity from hot or cold drinks. Your gums are meant to protect your teeth and the toothbrush is meant to remove gum aggravating plaque and bacteria from building on your teeth.
Mechanical Toothbrushes:
Mechanized toothbrushes have made a huge impact in the market over the past 10 years. Even though these mechanical brushes look neat, they do not provide added benefits over the traditional design. However, if you or your children have fun and are encouraged to brush with a mechanical toothbrush then by all means use them!
When Is It Time To Replace My Toothbrush?
The goal is to find a toothbrush that is comfortable for you to use, and will optimize your cleaning abilities. Every toothbrush has a throwaway date that usually occurs every four to six months. We would also like to recommend that you replace your toothbrush after every cold or seasonal bug. Viruses and bacteria can live on your toothbrush and lead to a second round of the sickness. Remain proactive and focus on remaining healthy!
Contact Our Cary Family Dentistry
If you would like to learn more about our Cary Dentist Office and Beavers Caring Family Dentistry of Cary, please call us at (919) 467-0654 or visit our Contact Page.