According to the Canadian Dental Association, there are four important steps to consider when choosing a toothbrush: Head, Name, Size and Power.

The key to excellent oral hygiene is keeping your mouth free of bacteria, plaque and any other unwanted buildup. The right toothbrush will help keep your teeth clean, free of germs and make you want to smile and show off those pearly whites.

Choosing the right toothbrush head:

Finding the right head is essential when selecting a toothbrush. Soft, rounded bristles are what you should be looking for. Some people have a tendency to brush too hard and with a soft head, you can reduce your chances of having sensitive teeth and swollen gums.

What’s the correct size:

Examine the size of your mouth. Do you have a small mouth? Do you have a big mouth? You will need a toothbrush with a head that fits inside your mouth comfortably and can reach your back teeth without a struggle. Furthermore, when you are choosing a toothbrush for a child, buy one that is specifically made for kids. They are smaller and can accommodate tiny mouths.

Toothbrush Brand Names:

Unless you’re in a real financial bind, you should avoid no name, dollar-store toothbrushes. Most of the time these products are made cheaply and without any safety measures. Remember, you brush your teeth twice a day and if you’re using a no name toothbrush, much of your time spent brushing becomes a wasted effort. They do little to remove plaque and can do more harm to your mouth than good.

Electric Toothbrushes:

Electronic toothbrushes ensure that you brush thoroughly, for the right amount of time and are more adept at preventing gum disease than their manual equivalents. Some come equipped with timers to let you know when you’ve brushed for the required time and will even let you know when it’s time to change the head. They are better suited for people with arthritis because they do the work for you, as well as for children who aren’t too keen on keeping up with their oral hygiene.

Replace your toothbrush every three months or after you get sick. If you’re prone to colds and flus, you may want to get a new brush every month. Change your children’s brush when you change yours so everyone in your house has a clean and happy mouth.

If you’re still not sure which toothbrush is right for your mouth or your child’s, ask us when you come in for your next appointment and we’ll be happy to advise you!