Should You Use a Manual or an Electric Toothbrush?

The first choice you will need to make is whether you want to use a manual toothbrush or a modern, electric version. There are pros and cons to both choices, and it largely comes down to what works best for you and your personality.

Manual toothbrushes are, of course, a lot less expensive and easier to replace. If you have a busy family and are instilling good dental hygiene with your kids, then a manual toothbrush might be easiest to use.

However, many people see more benefits from automatic brushes. You may get a more thorough cleaning, even if you have uneven teeth or braces that make cleaning harder. In addition, many electric toothbrush owners find themselves brushing for longer at each session — especially if they use a toothbrush with a timer.

What Type of Toothbrush Is Best?

Take a look at toothbrushes, and you will see more variation in the head size and shape than you might expect. Manual brush heads come in rectangle, round, oval, diamond shapes, and more. Even electric toothbrush heads offer varieties with bristles that are different lengths and facing different directions. There is no definitive answer on which works best, so choose one that feels comfortable. So how long is a toothbrush? The answer is that a standard toothbrush is typically about 7 to 8 inches (18 to 20 centimeters) long. This length includes the handle and the head, which holds the bristles. However, the exact length can vary slightly depending on the brand and design of the toothbrush. 

First, look for a head that’s small enough to maneuver around easily inside your mouth so that it will reach harder spots, like the sides and backs of your teeth. Generally, most people find that the best size head is one that covers only one or two teeth at a time. Brushes with medium strength bristles also tend to do a good job without risking damage to your gums from hard bristles. 

There are a number of handle and grip shapes that you can experiment with to find one that works well for you. Always look for a brush with a handle you can easily grip. Some toothbrushes also come with a flexible head that may help you reach the more inaccessible parts of your mouth. Are medium toothbrushes bad? The answer is that medium toothbrushes are not inherently bad, but their suitability depends on individual dental needs and preferences. Medium bristles can effectively remove plaque and food particles, offering a balance between softness and firmness. However, they might be too abrasive for people with sensitive gums or enamel, potentially causing irritation or enamel wear. Dentists often recommend soft bristles for gentle, thorough cleaning, especially for those with dental sensitivities. Always choose a toothbrush that aligns with your oral health needs and consult your dentist for personalized advice.

Choosing a Toothpaste

Complement your toothbrush with a good toothpaste. Start with a fluoride toothpaste that’s approved by the American Dental Association and a flavor that you and your family find appealing.

While there are a dizzying array of other factors promoted on tubes of toothpaste — from tooth whitening to fresher breath to treating gum diseases — most people simply need a solidly performing toothpaste and regular dental habits in order to get the best results.

More toothpaste has natural ingredients or is designed for sensitive teeth, which may appeal to parents or others. This is, of course, a personal choice and may be valuable if it will encourage you to brush better and longer.

If you still can’t find a toothbrush that works well for you and helps you maintain the best oral health routines, then consult an experienced dentist for advice. With years of experience looking after Nebraska families’ dental care, Cherry Hill Dentistry can help you find the perfect fit for all your dental health needs. Give our team a call today to schedule an appointment.