When you go to buy a toothbrush, you most likely don’t look too hard at the packaging or the different styles of brush. Many patients just pick out the same kind of toothbrush they’ve always been using. But not every toothbrush in Waco, TX, is made the same. There are different sizes and shapes for the head. Different harshness and lengths to the bristles. And even different handle weights and shapes. While some differences are only minor, others can seriously affect your oral hygiene routine.
Should You Use a Hard or Soft Bristle Toothbrush in Waco, TX?
Choosing the right toothbrush is very important for maintaining a healthy smile. Not only can the right toothbrush help keep your teeth and gums clean, but it can also protect them from unnecessary damage. While it’s not always easy to tell which brush is right for your teeth, your dentist can help you narrow down your options.
The Benefits of a Soft Bristle Brush
A soft bristle brush is often recommended for most patients by most dentists. Soft bristles are effective at removing plaque, which has a softer consistency than you might think. And if you have the right brushing technique, a soft bristle brush can safely remove most harmful bacteria in your mouth. Softer bristles are also more flexible, which means they can be additionally effective in helping you clean between teeth to support flossing efforts.
The Dangers of a Hard Bristle Brush
Despite what you might think, a hard bristle brush isn’t any more effective at removing plaque than a soft bristle brush. And while it may be more beneficial to patients who have tartar buildup, it also has many damaging drawbacks. Your gums are made of sensitive soft tissue, and they can quickly suffer under hard pressure. If you consistently use a hard bristle brush, you may find your gums starting to bleed when you brush. Over time, gums can even begin to recede. While your dentist may recommend an occasional hard bristle brushing for certain issues, a soft bristle brush is better for everyday use.
Other Bristle Considerations
While choosing the right softness of bristle is important, there are other variations to consider as well. Toothbrushes can have a varying number of layers of bristles. They also have different angles that are better at cleaning different problem spots in your mouth. If you have the right angle and layer brush, you can often improve your brushing and help protect your teeth from decay and disease even more.
Having the right toothbrush is crucial for maintaining your oral hygiene. But it’s not always easy to tell what your teeth need. If you need help finding the right toothbrush for your smile, call Fusion Dental & Braces today at (254) 274-0979 to schedule a consultation and learn more about the different types of toothbrushes.