How to Choose the Best Toothbrush

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

Toothbrushes come in all different kinds of shapes, sizes and colors.  While some factors play a role in how well you are brushing, others do not.  Here are a few tips to help you choose the best toothbrush for your smile health.

Choosing a Toothbrush:

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• Shape – Any toothbrush can be effective if you are using the right technique.  However, there are certain shapes that may be better than others.  Round, rotating heads are best for electric brushes and manual brushes with tapered heads are best for people with narrow jaws.
• Size – The perfect sized toothbrush will allow you to comfortably clean all the way around your last top molar.  Toothbrushes that are too big or too small can miss plaque in tight spots and hard-to-reach areas.
• Bristles – Always choose bristles that are soft.  Hard toothbrushes can irritate your gums, causing bleeding and even gum recession.
• Handle – The shape and size of your toothbrush handle has no effect on how well you brush.  However, you may find certain toothbrushes to be more comfortable to hold than others.

Don’t forget to change your toothbrush every 3-4 months or when the bristles become frayed.  Contact Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove with any questions you have about yours or your child’s toothbrush.  Call 516-222-5100 to contact our Garden City office or 516-759-7000 to contact our Glen Cove office.