Toothbrush Talk

People are constantly trying to decide on the correct type of toothbrush to buy. The grocery store rack is literally full of dozens of different types. Why so many different designs?

Are we trying to reinvent the wheel??.....................Probably.

I mean does it REALLY matter that much what style of brush we use?

There are so many choices now:

• the ergonomically shaped ones;
• curved grip;
• angled bristles;
• different length bristles;
• polished bristles;
• spring loaded neck;
• triangular shaped head.

The answer to all of this is that all the toothbrush styles really point out the power of American marketing. The style is NOT all that important as much as the TIME used with the brush. I do prefer a bit smaller brush and one with a raised group of tufts near the very end. Smaller brushes make cleaning in the back areas much easier (even if you do have a big mouth). It is VERY important to replace your brush at least each 6 to 8 weeks to keep the optimum cleaning.

ELECTRIC BRUSHES

I am asked quite frequently about electric brushes and are they "worth it"?

I generally recommend them, but with certain facts pointed out:

1. A manual brush can perform as well, it will just take longer.
2. Certain electric brushes handle stain better.
3. Children will generally slow down and use more time with an electric brush. This seems to make up for their lack of skill.
4. Be careful about the size of the brush head - the smaller that it is, the better to reach into small areas (just like manual brushes).

FREQUENCY of BRUSHING

We should brush at least twice a day. It is the ultimate to brush after each meal and snack. Take your time, the most common mistake I see made by people is that they will rush the brushing. I see children constantly that "brush" every day (twice a day) that have an eighth of inch of plaque on their teeth.
My recommendation is:

1. Brush twice a day.
2. In the evening - brush the upper teeth ONLY for 1 minute, then rinse the brush and mouth and repeat one minute on the lower.
3. Floss in the evening after brushing.
4. Use fluoride toothpaste or prescription fluoride gel.