The Dos and Don’ts of Toothbrushes

A toothbrush is an important tool in your daily oral care regimen. You may not think too much about your toothbrush, except when you pull it out of its container to use it; but actually, your toothbrush in an important instrument. How well you use it, its condition, and how you take care of it affects your oral health. In turn, your oral health impacts the overall health of your body. 

Do you know the dos and don’ts when it comes to your toothbrush? No need to worry! For those who need a refresher, Dr. Krengel has put together a handy list:

Do: Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months as recommended by the American Dental Association.
Do: Replace your toothbrush earlier than 3-4 months if the bristles become frayed with use. A toothbrush with worn bristles will not effectively clean your teeth and could cause damage to your gums.
Do: Replace your toothbrush each time you are sick.
Don’t: Attempt to clean your toothbrush in the dishwasher or microwave. This will damage your toothbrush forcing you to get a new one!

Don’t: Share your toothbrush.

Do: Use a toothbrush that properly fits the size of your mouth. Choose a small head, for example, to be able to reach your back teeth. 
Do: Rinse your toothbrush after each use.
Don’t: Store your toothbrush in a closed container. This can cause the growth of germs on your toothbrush.
Do: Store your toothbrush standing upright allowing it to air dry.
Don’t: Store toothbrushes together. This can cause the spread of germs.
Do: Store toothbrushes separated from one another.

Do: Contact West Bloomington’s Krengel Dental for a cleaning and oral checkup. There are some things even your toothbrush can miss and we’re here to help!
Do: Follow the guidelines listed above and enjoy your healthy, beautiful smile! 

Which Toothbrush to Choose: Manual vs. Electric

Our earliest memories of both dentists and their offices usually center on the toothbrush. Whether it was your dentist telling you how important it is to brush everyday, showing you how to brush on the model teeth, or the free one you got to take home when your visit was over. And with good importance, since the toothbrush is a tool we use everyday (twice a day, hopefully!).  Brushing is what helps prevent tooth decay, cavities, and a host of other dental problems. But you can’t start without the proper brush. There are two kinds of brushes: manual and electric.

Manual: Many people choose manual toothbrushes because they are more cost-effective and more readily available. They are also easier to travel with and put less pressure and your teeth and gums. If you choose a manual toothbrush, choose one with soft, nylon bristles. A softer brush is always preferable to one with hard bristles. Also use one that is smaller than you are used to. Smaller toothbrushes are easier to manipulate around the cramped confines of your mouth, in the spaces of any missing teeth, or if you have trouble reaching the back of your mouth where your molars are.

Electric: Electric toothbrushes might not be as cost-effective, but they have a variety of features to help you brush your teeth more effectively, such as timers to let you know how long you’ve been brushing for (a recommended two-three minutes) and they rotate for you to stimulate your teeth and gums.  If you do opt for an electronic toothbrush, choose a model with rotating-oscillating bristles. They appear to be better than manual brushes or electric brushes that rotate in only one direction.

Verdict: Choose the one that feels best for you and that you will enjoy using. Every toothbrush, manual or electric, will keep your teeth clean if you know how to use them and use them often.