When it comes to choosing toothbrushes, we don’t really care much about its performance or its benefits to oral health. In fact, more often than we think, we might feel tempted to choose a toothbrush that comes in a nice package that seems sophisticated.
However, we invite you to reconfigure previous thoughts about toothbrushes. To start, we want to make clear that toothbrushes matter. Indeed, choosing the right toothbrush should be a conscious task. So, Dr. Santiago Surillo intends to guide you with some essential facts about the importance of your toothbrush.
How To Choose the Right Toothbrush?
Toothbrushes come in a vast array of forms. In addition, some toothbrushes have a design for patients according to their specific needs. For instance, there are kids’ toothbrushes and some for patients with conditions like gingivitis.
In general terms, we can choose a toothbrush based on some general aspects, like the approval of the American Dental Association (ADA). Along with this approval, you must check these recommendations before buying a toothbrush:
Toothbrushes Bristle Type
We contend with this assumption that the harder the bristles, the better they remove food residues and debris. In fact, against popular belief, we recommend our patients buy soft-bristled toothbrushes only. Why? Simple, hard-bristled toothbrushes damage the thin outer layer of teeth named enamel, a sealant protective layer against bacteria attacks. Additionally, stiff bristles might hurt the gums.
Head Size for Each Toothbrush
Again, we might feel tempted to think that a toothbrush with a big head will cover more cleaning space. However, the smaller the head, the easier it would be to handle and maneuver the toothbrush, getting to hard-to-reach areas in the mouth.
How to Sanitize Your Toothbrushes and Keep Good Hygiene?
Numerous contamination agents can negatively impact our oral health. We examine some of these factors and bring you some answers.
How Often To Change a Toothbrush?
Very often. As with any other object that stays in a bathroom or is usually damp, it tends to accumulate bacteria. So, we recommend that our patients change their toothbrushes every three months.
Furthermore, if you get sick, you should immediately replace your toothbrush. Also, if you notice the bristles are splayed, don’t wait three months to replace your toothbrush. Splayed bristles indicate your toothbrush is ready to be thrown away.
What Happens if I Use Another Person’s Toothbrush Accidentally?
Believe it or not, we all have bacteria unique to our mouths. Yes, it sounds odd, but we are, in simple words, accustomed to our bacteria. Someone else’s toothbrush carries bacteria that might harm your teeth. Also, refrain from using a toothbrush from someone that has been sick.
How To Clean and Sanitize a Toothbrush?
You need to have a clean toothbrush so you can have clean teeth. Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after using it to remove debris, food particles, and toothpaste traces from it. Keep your toothbrush aired so it can dry. Avoid using an airtight cover as it can promote the growth of bacteria and mold.
Some Interesting Facts About Toothbrushes
If you are one of those wanting to know who, when, or why, this is for you. Maybe you’re someone who wants to know if anyone invented something we take for granted, like a toothbrush; then, welcome to the club. We question many things, so here we present some interesting facts about toothbrushes.
When Was the Toothbrush Invented?
It might shock you that the toothbrush as we know it today was an invention from 1938. So, you might wonder, How did people brush their teeth before that? Some other forms of the toothbrush existed, but the first registry accounts for 3000 BC. A chew stick, for instance, resembles a toothbrush with a thin twig with a frayed end that was part of the hygiene rituals of ancient civilizations.
Can You Use an Electric Toothbrush With Braces?
Yes, you can use an electric toothbrush if you are wearing braces. These helpful devices clean the braces and wires without damaging them. In fact, they are more effective than manual toothbrushes at removing plaque.
Can I Brush My Teeth Only With My Fingers?
Yes, you can use your fingers in case of an emergency, but only if you don’t find your toothbrush; just remember, do not make a habit of it. Cleaning your teeth a bit is better than not cleaning them at all, so fingers might be a good resort in extreme circumstances.
How To Brush My Kids’ Teeth With Braces?
Start brushing a tooth at a time with back-and-forth movements. Additionally, you can brush every single bracket and wire. The most important part is to check there are no food or debris residues in any part of the devices and teeth. Then rinse thoroughly and repeat as needed.
Are There Alternatives to Toothbrushes?
No, other cleaning methods should not replace toothbrushing; patients must also floss their teeth. However, you can take complementary measures and get auxiliary utensils to maintain excellent oral health:
- Interdental Toothbrushes.
- Water Irrigators.
- Professional Dental Cleaning.
- Fluoride Applications.
- Dental Sealants.
“Toothbrushes are important in maintaining our health,” says Dr. Santiago Surillo. “Our oral health directly impacts our overall health, so it’s important to make sure we take care of our toothbrushes and use the right kind of toothbrush, to keep not just dental disease but other disease and conditions at bay.”
Contact Dr. Santiago Surillo for more information about how to get healthy, strong teeth.