Selecting the right toothbrush can make all the difference when it comes to your oral health. Unfortunately, there are so many different types of toothbrushes and bristles that choosing the right one can be confusing!
So, how do you know what type of toothbrush bristles are best for you? In this blog, the experts at Parkcrest Dental will explain.
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Types of Toothbrush Bristles
Before you can choose a toothbrush, it’s helpful to know what the bristles are made of and what types are available to you. To begin, toothbrush bristles are made of nylon and are categorized into three different types:
- Soft bristles. Soft bristles are the most comfortable and safest choice of all three options. That’s because they won’t cause any damage to your gums or tooth enamel and they get the job done. (Meaning, they’ll clean your teeth well!) You can even choose extra soft bristles for young children, those with sensitive gums, or following a dental procedure or surgery.
- Medium bristles. Medium bristles are—you guessed it—somewhere between the softness of soft bristles and the hardness of hard bristles. They’re stiff enough to remove debris from your teeth and clean them well, but they’re not hard enough to damage your teeth or gums. You’ll just want to make sure to brush gently to avoid irritating your gums.
- Hard bristles. These are the hardest bristles available and they are intended to remove tough plaque and food debris. However, most dentists don’t recommend using them because sometimes they can hurt your gums and cause unnecessary discomfort when you brush. As a result, it’s more difficult to find toothbrushes with these types of bristles and they are not commonly used. If you need plaque removed from your teeth, it’s best to have a professional cleaning at your dentist!
Which Type of Toothbrush Bristles Should I Use?
Most people choose medium or soft bristles, but if you’re worried about tooth or gum sensitivity, the safest option would be soft bristles. They’re gentle enough to be comfortable and safe but still effective so you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’re keeping up with your oral health at home. You can also ask your dentist for individual recommendations before you go out and buy a new toothbrush.
Why do we recommend soft bristles? It doesn’t take a lot of brushing to dislodge food. This is also true for electric toothbrushes. Go for soft bristles rather than medium or hard ones.
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Get a Professional Recommendation from Parkcrest Dental Group
If you’re still not sure what type of toothbrush bristles best suit your dental needs, it’s best to talk with your dentist. He or she can provide a professional recommendation based on your oral health and dental history. At Parkcrest Dental, we care about your oral health and we are here to provide tips and recommendations. Call (417) 887-1220 or contact our team of dental health experts online for more information.
