The bright and flashy multitudes of packaging of the dental section in supermarkets and chemists can make for an overwhelming decision on your next toothbrush – Which one is the best for you?
Ultra-Soft, Soft, Medium or Hard?
Although you might feel like a medium or hard toothbrush is doing more in the way of removing plaque and bacteria, it can actually be harmful for your teeth and gums. Harder bristles have the ability to brush away tooth structure and contribute to gum recession – this is where a softer part of the tooth can become exposed and is more prone to decay. Ultra-soft and soft toothbrushes are the way to go, they can take a little to get used to if you’re used to a harder toothbrush; but these bristles are a lot softer and less likely to cause trauma to the teeth and gums. Make sure you are brushing in a soft circular motion around the gum lines instead of scrubbing too.
- What we love:
Colgate Slim Soft – around $3 each from Coles, Woolworths and Chemist Warehouse.
Which brand is best?
Ultimately, as long as you are using an ultra-soft or soft toothbrush, whichever brand that has a smaller toothbrush head and suits your financial situation is best. The packaging doesn’t have to be the biggest or brightest on the shelf. A smaller tooth brush head will allow the brush to fit right to the back of the mouth in those hard-to-reach areas and aid better plaque removal.
Electric or Manual Toothbrush?
The great debate! Whilst some people are more suited to using an electric toothbrush, any toothbrush that you like to use is the best one for you. Electric and manual toothbrushes use different brushing techniques, so as long as they are used correctly, either is a great choice.
If you are unsure which toothbrush is right for you, you can call us on 02 4324 1181 to make an appointment and discuss it with one of our friendly dentists or oral health therapists!