A toothbrush is your primary dental care tool, as you'll use it twice daily to maintain a bright and healthy smile. Choosing one with the right features makes it easy to use and will ensure you get the most from your routine. However, not all dental products are created equal. When shopping for a new toothbrush, consider the following factors to help guide your decision.

What to Consider When Buying a Toothbrush

1. Size

The toothbrush head should be small enough to maneuver around your mouth comfortably. Otherwise, it can't reach all areas of your mouth, increasing the risk of leaving plaque and bacteria on the teeth's surfaces. For most people, the optimal size is one inch tall and a half-inch wide.

As you compare toothbrushes, see how one fits in your hand. The grip should be comfortable, thick, and long enough to securely hold the tool for the 2 minutes you're cleaning your teeth.

2. Types of Bristles

The bristles on manual and electric toothbrushes are either soft, medium, or hard. With so many options, it can be challenging to determine which works best for you. However, soft bristles are optimal for most people. They aren't abrasive on the gums and won't wear down the enamel if you accidentally brush your teeth too vigorously.

While medium and hard bristles bend less, they can harm the root surfaces, gums, and the teeth's protective layers. Thus, you should only use them for dentures and partial teeth, as they won't become damaged.

3. Electric vs. Manual

Electric toothbrushes use bristled rotary heads to handle the task of cleaning the teeth. Some emit vibrations to loosen plaque easily, and many have built-in timers that allow users to brush for the recommended two minutes. Because their rotary heads move at constant speeds, every tooth surface receives an equal cleaning. 

While electric toothbrushes are convenient, some people don't enjoy the feeling of the vibrations. You may also consider a manual option if you don't want to continue buying replacement heads and batteries in the future.

For help finding the perfect dental product to sustain your oral health, visit Kathleen Kujiraoka, DDS in Kaneohe, HI. Their team is committed to creating a welcoming office and making patients feel comfortable. They specialize in various general dentistry services, from routine teeth cleanings and checkups to dentures and crowns. Visit the website to view the dental products they offer, and call (808) 235-2121 to schedule an appointment.