How to Choose a Toothbrush for Yourself

Your old toothbrush is worn out, and it's time to get a new one. Or maybe you want to try a different one. Whatever the reason, learn exactly how to choose the right toothbrush for you.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Toothbrushes to browse through

1. Electric vs. Manual: The more expensive electric toothbrushes are probably more effective than manual toothbrushes at removing plaque. These include the Braun Oral-B ProfessionalCare 7000 series and higher, which uses both pulsation and oscillation, or in-and-out and side-to-side movement. Less expensive electric toothbrushes may also be more effective than manual toothbrushes, but mainly because people don't brush long enough or with the best technique when using a manual toothbrush. Whatever the reason, most studies show that electric toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque.

2. If going with a manual toothbrush, what type should you choose? There's everything from flexible head to fresh breath designs, but by far the most important factor in getting clean teeth is brushing with the best technique and for a long enough time. Choose the type of toothbrush that makes brushing your teeth the easiest for you.

3. The most important things to get when buying a manual toothbrush are soft bristles and a small head. The soft bristles prevent your gums from being damaged, while the small head is best so you can easily reach and brush all parts of your teeth.

Tips & Warnings

• Replace your manual toothbrush or electric toothbrush head every three months to keep it effective at cleaning your teeth.
• It's best to replace your manual toothbrush or electric toothbrush head after you're sick to avoid getting an infection again. If you'd rather not buy a new toothbrush or toothbrush head, you can kill most of the germs by soaking your toothbrush in alcohol and then boiling it in water.
• For info on how to choose a toothpaste for brushing your teeth, see the resources below.

Resources

• How to Choose a Toothpaste for Brushing Your Teeth

[sonni57]

on 4/9/2009 Thanks for the suggestions I hate choosing a toothbrush.

[kaytay]

on 3/26/2009 a good toothbrush is so important. thanks for the tips

[showpup]

on 12/8/2008 Great pointers. There are so many varieties of toothbrushes out there that it can be downright mind boggling. I'd love to get an electric toothbrush. Maybe Santa will like me well enough this year. 5 stars

[Mocha]

on 11/30/2008 Great tips