Brushing

Selecting the right toothbrush :

  • Toothbrushes vary in design, size, lengh, hardness & arrangement of bristles.
  • Selection of brush is totally depend on individual performance but following points must be kept in mind while selecting toothbrush.
  1. Toothbrush should be able to reach & clean efficiently most of areas of mouth.
  2. Arrangement of teeth in mouth (Spacing or Crowding)
  3. It should be easy to use.

             There is controversy regarding hardness of toothbrush bristles people usually think, use of hard bristles cause enamel wear, but the fact is wearing of enamel depend on brushing method of individual & abrasiveness of the toothpaste.

             Improper brushing can lead to painful recession (Downward shifting of gum) & triangular shaped defects in the neck areas of teeth.To maintain the cleaning effectiveness,it is must to replace your toothbrush as soon as bristles begin to fray. Generally with regular use brushes wear in about 3 to 4 months times.But, if all bristles are flattened after one to two week of use it indicate that brushing is too aggressive or if the bristles remain. straight even after 6 to 7 months of use it indicate, brushing is very gentle than required.

            The recommended brush for most people should have a short head with round ended, soft to medium nylon bristles arranged in 3 to 4 rows of tufts.

Manual vs Powered toothbrushes

         Powered toothbrushes are recommended for;

  • Individual lacking fine motor skills.
  • Patients with orthodontic appliances.
  • Small children, hospitalized or handicapped patients, person who need to have their teeth cleaned by someone else.
  • Anybody who prefers can use powdered toothbrushes. Best results by using powered toothbrushes are obtained only when they are used in proper way. It can be valuable replacement for manual brush if used properly & regularly. However, when tooth brush cleaning ability is compared, it provides no superiority over manual tooth brushes.

Which toothpaste to use?

  • Toothpaste aid in cleaning & polishing.
  • Toothpaste contain abrasives such as aluminum oxides & silicon oxides, humectants, water detergent, flavoring & sweetening agents, therapeutic agents such as Fluoride coloring agents & preservatives.

Use of particular brand is totally depend on personal preference.

How many times should I brush?
Generally, everyone should brush twice a day. For children, brushing at night is helpful & needed.