There are various types and shapes of toothbrushes on the market. It is important for you to know the different types of toothbrushes and their functions, because the right type of toothbrush determines its effectiveness in cleaning teeth and gums.
Regardless of the type, the role of a toothbrush in general is to remove plaque and food debris that has accumulated on the teeth and gums. This is important for preventing tooth and gum decay, as well as keeping your breath fresh.
Various innovations have been made to make the most effective toothbrush in cleaning the oral cavity and preventing dental, gum and tongue health problems. This is why there are now so many different kinds of toothbrushes.
Various Kinds of Toothbrush and How to Choose It
The following are the types and functions of toothbrushes based on head size, bristles, and how to operate them:
1. Toothbrush head size
The size of the toothbrush head determines how far it reaches and how effective it is in cleaning teeth. There are two types of toothbrush head sizes, namely a toothbrush with a small head and a toothbrush with a wide head. Choose a toothbrush that is the right size for your needs.
Small head toothbrushes usually have a brush head that is 2.5 cm wide or smaller. Due to the small size of the brush head, this type of toothbrush is suitable for cleaning the nooks and crannies of your teeth, especially if you wear braces.
A wide head toothbrush has a brush head over 2.5 cm. Thanks to its wide brush head, this type of toothbrush can reach a wider area of the teeth and gums, making brushing more effective, faster and cleaner.
2. Toothbrush bristles
There are three types of toothbrush bristles, namely soft, medium and hard bristles. It is recommended that you choose soft and soft bristles, because medium or hard bristles have the potential to cause canker sores and damage your gums, root surfaces, and tooth enamel.
In addition, also choose a toothbrush that has slender, soft and strong bristles, so that the bristles are able to reach the narrow spaces between your teeth and are strong enough to pick up stubborn plaque on the surface or between your teeth.
3. Toothbrush operation
From how to operate it, there are 2 kinds of toothbrushes, namely manual and electric toothbrushes. An electric toothbrush is a toothbrush whose bristles can move and rotate automatically. While on a manual toothbrush, you have to control the movement and rotation of the bristles yourself.
Although the price difference is quite far, actually the effectiveness of these two types of toothbrush is not too far away. As long as you brush your teeth the right way, both a manual toothbrush and an electric toothbrush are equally effective at removing plaque on your teeth and gums.
How to Care for and Store Toothbrushes
In addition to choosing the right type of toothbrush and according to your needs, you also have to take good care of your toothbrush. The reason is, toothbrushes have the potential to be a nest of bacteria. Here's how to care for a good toothbrush:
- Avoid exchanging toothbrushes with other people.
- Rinse the toothbrush thoroughly after use until there are no more remnants of toothpaste and dirt.
- Keep the toothbrush in a standing position with the brush head at the top.
- Avoid storing toothbrushes in closed containers, as this can promote the growth of bacteria and fungi.
- Soak the toothbrush every now and then in 3% hydrogen peroxide or a liquid mouthwash to kill any bacteria on the toothbrush.
- Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or every time your bristles are worn out.
Having a good toothbrush is not enough to keep your teeth and mouth healthy. You should also adopt good brushing habits. Brush your teeth at least 2 times a day for 2 minutes and use a toothpaste containing fluoride.
When brushing your teeth, make sure you brush all surfaces of each tooth up to between the teeth, including the gap between the gums and teeth. When brushing the front teeth, brush your teeth gently in a circular or vertical motion. Don't forget to rub your tongue too.
In addition, do not forget to do regular dental check-ups to the dentist every 6 months. If you are still unsure about choosing the right toothbrush because you have certain health conditions, you can consult a dentist.
