How to Choose the Right Toothbrush and Toothpaste

Brushing your teeth twice daily is vital to keeping your oral health in prime condition; without caring for your teeth and gums, your mouth will likely encounter harmful bacteria more often that can lead to oral diseases.

Therefore, brushing is excellent, but is it essential which toothbrushes and toothpaste we use? Many people are unaware of what constitutes a good or lousy toothbrush or toothpaste, so Pure Smiles wants to help you understand what you should look for and the best ways to use them.

Why is the Choice of Toothpaste Important?

You need to ensure that you are buying fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride has properties that help strengthen the enamel in our teeth, so tooth decay becomes less likely. Protected enamel means your teeth are less likely to experience harm from the daily bacteria we encounter in food, drink, and other consumptions. Drinking water in many countries worldwide has added fluoride to help the general population’s oral health.

It would be best if you didn't prioritise whitening toothpaste over those with the requisite amount of fluoride or tartar control because although they might whiten your teeth fractionally, the results are rarely noticeable. Your best option for teeth whitening is to visit an expert dentist who specialises in the practice.

How to Choose the Right Toothbrush

You should never be tempted to brush your teeth too aggressively, even if you feel you stand a better chance of removing bacteria or plaque; a toothbrush that isn't soft risks the enamel surface on your teeth and can recede gums to expose more of your teeth, potentially leading to tooth looseness, sensitivity, and increased likelihood of oral diseases. Therefore, we advise you to choose a softer toothbrush that is gentle on your teeth and keeps your gums from receding.

The best choice for a toothbrush is always electric; manual toothbrushes rely on humans to know the best brushing techniques, which isn't always guaranteed. Electric toothbrushes rotate and vibrate perfectly to remove bacteria and protect your teeth effectively.

How to Use the Toothbrush and Toothpaste Correctly

After brushing your teeth, some people automatically want to rinse the minty flavour from their mouth, but this isn't the best idea. Instead, it would help to spit the toothpaste into the sink but not rinse the remnants so the fluoride can remain on your teeth and gums to protect them further.

If you own an electric toothbrush, you won't need to use the “up and down, side to side” technique. Instead, move from one tooth to the next, letting the brush's mechanism work independently and clean your teeth. If you don't own an electric toothbrush, remember to brush your teeth up and down as much as possible and do so gently without aggravating your gums.

If you want more tips on dental care and the best ways to look out for your teeth, ask the dental professionals at Pure Smiles, and they will provide you with as many at-home tips as possible.