Choosing a Toothbrush

Choosing a toothbrush can sometimes be confusing, but let me be clear… Always, and I mean always, use a soft bristle toothbrush!  Toothbrush producers shouldn’t even make medium and hard bristled toothbrushes, but they continue to produce them because people continue to buy them.  The only good use for a medium and hard bristle is to perhaps scrub the tile in your bathroom floor!  These toothbrushes have no place in your mouth. Trust me.

Toothbrush abrasion is a common problem among well-intended patients who think they are doing the right thing by brushing firmly with a stiff bristle brush.  Over time, these stiff bristle brushes can lead to gum recession and notches in the enamel and the exposed root surface of the teeth.  Teeth can become sensitive, and gum recession can actually lead to tooth decay.  Imagine that, brushing your teeth actually causing tooth decay and gum disease.

Dental notching due to brushing too hard.

Even with a soft bristle brush, a gentle technique is best.  Do not bear down on the bristles.  Gently lay the bristles at the gum line and make small circular motions.  Not too much pressure.  If your brush has flared bristles replace it and lighten up on your pressure. Think of it more as a gentle message at the gum line than a hard scrub. Do not brush less; just lighten up on the pressure. Brushing and flossing are still the most important things that you can do for the health of your mouth, but the key is to do it properly.

If you have difficulty mastering the “gentle circular stroke technique”, consider buying an electric toothbrush and let the toothbrush do the work (still it must have soft bristles). For good oral health, brush 2 to 3 times per day after meals, floss daily and see your dentist at least every six months and…. USE A SOFT BRISTLE TOOTHBRUSH AND TAKE IT EASY. Your mouth will thank you for it!