We all know that brushing your teeth regularly is an important part of maintaining good dental health. But did you know that choosing the right kind of toothbrush also matters? With all of the toothbrushes available on the market today ranging from soft to medium to hard, electric and manual, it can be difficult to know which toothbrush is the best one for you.

Soft is better

When choosing a toothbrush, whether electric or manual, it’s best to opt for a soft-bristled brush. Anything coarser will actually wear away your enamel and gums. The same advice goes for pressure in brushing—harder brushing does not equal better brushing. Many people brush too hard, especially with hard-bristled toothbrushes, and can damage sensitive gum tissue and their gum line. Thus, softer brushes cause less irritation while still effectively removing plaque and tartar buildup.

Think about sweeping a new, shiny hardwood floor. A broom has bristles that are designed to brush away dust without damaging and scratching your floor, right? However, if you replaced the normal bristles with steel wires, it would still sweep your floor but it will cause some serious damage in the process. Similarly, hard toothbrushes are too stiff—just like a broom with steel wire bristles. Yes, they’ll get your teeth clean, but they’ll damage your teeth surfaces and gum tissue in the process.

When it comes to your teeth, stick to a soft-bristled toothbrush and a consistent oral health routine of brushing twice a day, flossing, and using mouthwash.

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Want to learn more about proper brushing techniques?  Make an appointment with us today and we’ll teach you everything you need to know about great oral care!