Types of ToothbrushesChoosing the right toothbrush is a topic which causes people a fair amount of confusion. Given the many types of toothbrushes available to consumers today,the confusion is understandable. Each product seems better than the previous one. Price points vary from about one dollar to well over one hundred. Simple, unsophisticated generic manual models all the way up to high-tech systems with wireless remote monitors that digitally display brushing pressure, time, and brush-head longevity. Talk about information overload! How in the world do you choose the right type of toothbrush for you? It's always good to begin with the end in mind. In this case a reasonable result could be: getting your teeth thoroughly clean quickly and inexpensively. Let's break that down this way. If you have a full compliment of teeth, it will take a minimum of two minutes of brushing for a good cleaning. The thoroughness of cleaning depends much more on the person than the brush, so even the best brushes in the world won't help if they are used improperly. That just leaves us to talk about expense. You do not need to spend a big pile of cash to have clean teeth. You certainly can spend a lot but it is not necessary, and it won't insure that you get clean teeth. There are two main types of toothbrushes, based on how they are "powered": Manual or Electric. Both types work equally well in my opinion. Here are some pluses and minuses for both. Manual brushes A very high quality, totally satisfactory brush can be had for around two dollars. It won't be exciting, expensive, or exotic, but it will- if properly used- do everything you need it to do. Make sure you use a brush with soft bristles to prevent damaging your teeth or gums. A soft brush will easily remove plaque and superficial stains from your teeth, so there's no need for a hard brush and the abrasion it can cause. A soft brush used with gentle pressure will cleanse you teeth and provide a stimulating massage to your gums. A very important point is to replace it every two to three months. When the bristles are worn and splayed it is useless to you. Throw it out. Electric brushes The technology used in some of the newest brushes is amazing; sonic brushes utilizing acoustic energy to cleanse teeth, spinning, reciprocating, and vibrating bristles to remove plaque. Some of the newest designs allow you to simply hold the brush in the right spots and let the brush do all of the work.These little machines really are pretty cool and they (at least the best ones) work very well. They are especially helpful for people who have arthritis, lack coordination, or are just not very good with their hands. Tooth brushing is a fine-motor skill that is not easy for everyone. Some of these high quality, technically advanced tools can help such people. Manual vs. Electric Just remember, it's all about the operator and not the tool. Manual brushes can work just as well as the best electrics. Can you be happy with low tech? Then save yourself some money and stick to manual brushes. Do high tech tools make your day? Open your wallet and have some fun--there are some great products out there and if they help you to a healthier mouth then they're well worth the price. The Bottom Line Tooth brushing winds up like so many things in life: a trade-off. Manual brushing is low cost but labor-intensive. Electric brushing is higher cost but less work. Two different means to reach the same goals. Brush well at least twice daily with either technology and you'll be well on your way to great oral health. Ask your dentist for advice on which method will work best for you.
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Manufacturers add on all manner of gadgets, colors, and textures to get you to buy their brand. Soft rubber heads, special gum-massaging "whiskers", bright colors. There are even ones that play music. None of this makes your mouth any healthier. If it amuses you then indulge yourself, but it will not directly improve your oral health.If manual brushes aren't for you, and you don't mind spending a bit of money, there are some technologically advanced brushes available which can also help keep your mouth healthy.