You know that brushing your teeth every day is imperative for ideal oral health. You know the color of your personal toothbrush. But beyond that, how much do you really know about toothbrushes? Keep reading to be enlightened.
Is a manual or electric toothbrush better?
It may come as a surprise that both manual and electric toothbrushes can effectively clean your teeth if used properly. Simply brush twice a day for two minutes. Choose a manual or an electric toothbrush based on your preferences. If you find brushing with a manual toothbrush difficult, you may want to try an electric toothbrush. Talk to Dr. Ravi Aulakh about which type of toothbrush is best for you.
When should a toothbrush be replaced?
The lifespan of a toothbrush is three to four months. Make sure to replace your toothbrush at this time, or sooner if the bristles begin to look frayed. Keep in mind that a worn or frayed toothbrush will not be able to clean your teeth as well.
Which type of bristles is best?
Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles, whether you are using a manual or electric toothbrush. Using a toothbrush with medium or firm bristles can damage your gums and tooth enamel. Do not scrub your teeth when you brush, as this can damage the enamel as well.
Should a toothbrush be shared?
Never share a toothbrush, even with your partner. Sharing a toothbrush means you are sharing bacteria and germs. This is especially a problem if you or the other person has a cold or flu.
To learn more and to schedule your next visit with our dentist in Sunnyvale, California, we encourage you to call AZ Dental at 408-738-1000 today.