Choosing the Right Toothbrush and Toothpaste for Your Smile

Brushing Your Teeth

While everyone should aim to visit their dentist at least once or twice a year, many don’t. Unfortunately, by not visiting your dentist’s office regularly, it is easy to develop bad habits that can lead to dental issues. Two of the easiest things to get wrong if you don’t seek professional advice are toothbrush and toothpaste selection. The variety and variations of available products make it easy to become overwhelmed and lead to selecting something that is not right for your smile or gum health. Therefore, when in doubt, it is better to stick to a few generally accepted dental suggestions about both toothbrushes and toothpaste.

Toothbrush

Most people ignore the specifics of their toothbrushes. They choose one based on price or style, overlooking the factors that make the selection the best choice: bristle density, head size, amenities, and overall size. When searching for a toothbrush, it is easy to get into a “Goldilocks situation” with one brush being too soft, and another being too hard.

Most dentists agree that a soft bristle brush is the best option for most people. The softness provides enough resistance to remove plaque without damaging the enamel or your gums. Many dentists will argue the benefits of a toothbrush with a small head because it makes it easier to get into those hard to reach spaces. Electronic brushes also have a lot of support because they help to simplify the brushing process. However, while most of these attributes can be applied universally, the size of the actual brush is dependent on the individual. Children will require a smaller brush than adults, but some adults will need a smaller option than others. Therefore, it is still ideal to talk to your dentist about the best brush option for you.

Toothpaste

While toothbrush selection can be more generalized, toothpaste is highly dependent on the individual. However, the one thing that every dentist agrees on is the importance of using a fluoride-based toothpaste. Fluoride strengthens the enamel of your teeth and is beneficial to your overall oral health. Though beyond fluoride, toothpaste is specific to symptoms and treatment. For example, there are solutions for sensitive teeth, whitening, and tartar and plaque control. Therefore, the most important thing to consider is your dental needs. Other than that, look for a fluoride-based toothpaste that is not sweetened.

While toothbrush and toothpaste selection is necessary, it is more crucial that you commit to regular brushing and dental examinations. If you are confused about the right toothpaste or toothbrush or if it has been a while since your last oral exam, contact a dentist, like a dentist in Cary, NC, and schedule an appointment.

Thanks to Alliance Dentistry for their insight into how to choose the right toothbrush and toothpaste.