Did you know that people are brushing their teeth less than ever? Due to the stress of the pandemic and a host of other issues, oral hygiene is on the back burner for many Americans.
If you want to avoid unnecessary trips to the dentist and keep your mouth clean, you should make sure you have a good toothbrush. How can you decide which toothbrush is actually the best for you? Here are some factors to think about when toothbrush shopping.
Personal Preference
Although you may be influenced by snazzy advertisements and new features, it really comes down to how you prefer to brush your teeth. As long as you know the proper technique for brushing, you should achieve similar results with manual and electric toothbrushes alike.
For example, if you do not enjoy the buzzing of the electric toothbrush, you may feel less motivated to brush your teeth. Or, for people with mobility issues or mental health problems, sometimes brushing teeth manually can be a major chore.
Consider the Cost
When it comes to the cost, you cannot beat a manual toothbrush. Most of the time, you can get these brushes for free from your dentist when you go in for your semi-annual cleaning and exam.
In general, electric toothbrushes tend to be more expensive. You will need to pay for the initial toothbrush, and also purchase toothbrush heads that you should change out every 12 weeks. However, your electric toothbrush may last you for years, so you will not have to throw it out.
Look for Dentist Recommendations
Rather than trying to choose between a manual toothbrush and an electric toothbrush, the most important factor in a toothbrush is whether dentists recommend it. If you do not know where to begin, you should ask your dentist or hygienist for their favorites.
You can also look for the American Dental Association seal of approval when you go toothbrush shopping. These will often be on a toothbrush for receding gums or other common dental issues.
Best Toothbrush for Children
When you have children, you may have to choose a different toothbrush than you would as an adult. It might be a good idea to go with a manual toothbrush at first to teach them good oral hygiene habits.
An electric toothbrush can also help keep their teeth cleaner and prevent cavities, which will save you money on their dental bills in the long run.
Find the Best Toothbrush for Your Needs
Whether you want to continue having great oral hygiene or you want to make a change to your brushing habits, having a toothbrush that suits you is important. With this guide, you can choose a toothbrush that will help your mouth stay clean and prevent cavities.