Walk into any drug store and you’ll find an overwhelming wall of toothbrushes. Which one is actually best for your teeth? It usually comes down to two main factors: bristle type and brush head size.
Soft vs. Hard Bristles
The vast majority of dental professionals recommend soft bristles. Medium and hard bristles can actually damage your enamel and cause gum recession if you brush too vigorously. Soft bristles are effective at removing plaque while being gentle on your sensitive gum tissues.
Manual vs. Electric
Both manual and electric toothbrushes can be effective. However, electric toothbrushes are often recommended because they do much of the work for you, ensuring a consistent level of vibration or rotation. Many also feature built-in timers to ensure you brush for the full two minutes.
Head Size
Choose a brush head that fits easily into all areas of your mouth. A head that is about 1 inch long and half an inch wide is standard and effective for most adults.
Regardless of what you choose, remember to replace your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if the bristles start to fray.