Types of Toothbrushes

Given the many types of toothbrushes available to consumers, confusion about which type to use is understandable. Prices vary from about a buck to well more than $100 for some electric styles. What’s the best?


The bottom line is cleaning your teeth thoroughly, which has a lot more to do with the user than it does the tool. For the sake of argument, however, following is the lowdown on the basic toothbrush styles.


Manual Brushes


A high quality, totally satisfactory manual toothbrush can be had for around $2-$4. It won't be exciting, expensive or equipped with all the bells and whistles, but if used properly and for at least two minutes per session, three times per day, it will do everything it needs to accomplish.


Be sure to use a brush with soft bristles to prevent damaging your teeth and gums. Soft bristles will clean your teeth thoroughly and stimulate your gums adequately without causing the damaging abrasion that medium to hard bristles will. Also, be sure to replace your toothbrush every two to three months, as the more wear it endures, the less effective it becomes.


Manufacturers may add all manner of gadgets—textures, colors. rubber tips, special gum-massaging whiskers. There are even some toothbrushes that play music. None of this makes your mouth any healthier. But if it amuses you, by all means, indulge yourself. Anything that gets you to brush longer or more often is worth it.


Electric Toothbrushes


The technology used in some of the newest brushes is nothing short of amazing. There are sonic brushes utilizing acoustic energy to cleanse teeth, spinning, reciprocating and vibrating bristles to remove plaque. Some of the newest designs allow you to simply hold the brush in the right spots and let the brush do all the work. These machines really are pretty cool and many work very well. They’re especially helpful for people who have arthritis, lack coordination, or are just not very good with their hands.


Manual vs. Electric


Just remember, it's all about the operator and not the tool. Manual brushes can work just as well as the best electrics. Can you be happy with low tech? Then save yourself some money and stick to manual brushes. Do high-tech tools make your day? Then open your wallet and have some fun.


The Bottom Line


Tooth brushing winds up like so many things in life: a trade-off. Manual brushing is low cost, but labor-intensive. Electric brushing is higher cost, but less work. Whichever direction you go, just be sure to brush well at least three times daily.

For information about the Ferber Dental Group, dental implants, dentures or periodontal concerns, call 561-439-8888 or visit www.ferberdental.com.