Your guide to choosing the right toothbrush and toothpaste

Do you stand in the dental care aisle at the supermarket, staring at the rows upon rows of toothbrushes and toothpaste, feeling totally bewildered? You’re not alone, with so many toothbrushes and toothpaste on offer, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. 

Brushing your teeth morning and night is an essential part of your oral hygiene routine, and choosing the right equipment is crucial to ensure you get the best results. Luckily, the dentists at The Practice are here to help. To ensure you make the right choice, we’ve put together this guide to help you choose the right toothbrush and toothpaste for your needs. 

Choosing the right toothbrush

When choosing a toothbrush you need to consider your personal needs, whether it’s addressing tooth sensitivity, improving overall oral health, or making your teeth whiter. When choosing a toothbrush, you should consider: 

Electric or manual: The first choice you’ll have to make is whether you decide upon an electric or manual toothbrush. While it comes down to personal preference, there are quite a few differences between the two. 

When it comes to electric toothbrushes, there are two types: oscillating and sonic. Oscillating toothbrushes feature small, circular heads that rotate swiftly, while sonic toothbrushes incorporate both rotational movement and high-frequency vibrations.

Here are some pros and cons for both:

MANUAL TOOTHBRUSH

Pros: 

• More affordable. 
• Simple to use and effective if used properly. 
• Easy to travel – no need for batteries or charging.
• Available in most shops. 

Cons: 

• Relies on your brushing technique to clean efficiently.
• No built-in timer.
• Hard to use for people with arthritis or mobility issues. 
• Greater chance of gum damage if you brush too hard. 
• Inconsistent or uneven results if not used appropriately. 

ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH

Pros: 

• Efficient and thorough cleaning when used properly.
• Built-in timers.
• Easy to use – less effort than manual toothbrushes.
• Some toothbrushes have pressure sensors to prevent brushing too hard and damaging teeth and gums.
• A good variety of brush heads to meet your individual needs. 

Cons: 

• More expensive than manual toothbrushes and ongoing head replacement costs. 
• Need to be recharged or batteries need to be replaced periodically.
• Take time to learn the proper technique. 
• Less compact for travelling.

Size and shape: The head of your toothbrush should fit comfortably in your mouth, without feeling like it’s too big or too small. Choosing the right size and shape for your mouth will ensure you can reach the molars in the back of your mouth. Toothbrushes also come with different handles, the handle should feel easy to grip and help you control the brushing.

Soft, medium or hard bristles: As you probably already know, toothbrushes come with a variety of bristle types. The most common types are categorised as soft, medium and hard. In agreement with the recommendations from the Australian Dental Association, we believe soft-bristled toothbrushes should be the go-to choice for most of our patients. They allow you to effectively clean your teeth, without damaging your enamel or your gums. 

Choosing the right toothpaste

When choosing toothpaste, there are a few factors to consider, including: 

Fluoride content: As dentists, we recommend fluoride toothpaste as the best option. Fluoride is a vital component of toothpaste that helps prevent cavities and fortify enamel. 

Individual needs: When choosing the right toothpaste, you should consider your individual needs. If your teeth are sensitive, you may need to choose a toothpaste that helps to alleviate sensitivity. Some patients prefer to choose toothpaste with more natural or organic ingredients, which are also an option. 

Teeth brushing tips

To help ensure you’re getting the most out of your teeth brushing, here are some tips from our experienced South Brisbane dentists: 

• Brush your teeth twice a day, 2 minutes, morning and night.
• Floss regularly to remove food particles between your teeth. 
• Visit your dentist regularly, every 6 months. 
• Eat a balanced diet, limiting food and drinks high in sugar. 

Dental care at The Practice West End

Our dentists at our West End dental practice always go above and beyond for our patients. By helping you choose the right toothbrush and toothpaste we can help you maintain excellent oral health. Always take into consideration your personal needs when choosing a toothbrush and toothpaste and learn how to use your toothbrush to ensure the best results. 

If you’d like to know more or are due for your 6-monthly check-up, book an appointment online today or call 07 3733 3223 and speak to one of our friendly staff.