What features should I look for in a manual toothbrush?
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American Dental Association answered:The ADA recommends that you select a manual toothbrush that displays the ADA Seal of Acceptance. That's because toothbrushes that have earned the ADA Seal have been thoroughly evaluated for their safety and effectiveness. To qualify for the Seal of Acceptance, the company must show that:- All of the toothbrush components are safe for use in the mouth
- Bristles are free of sharp or jagged edges and endpoints
- The handle material is manufacturer-tested to show durability under normal use
- The bristles won’t fall out with normal use
- The toothbrush can be used without supervision by the average adult to provide a significant decrease in mild gum disease and plaque
Choose a toothbrush that you like and find easy to use, so that you’ll use it twice a day to thoroughly clean all the surfaces of your teeth. You should also floss between your teeth once a day, and eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks. This will help ensure a beautiful smile for a lifetime.
The ADA recommends that you select a manual toothbrush that displays the ADA Seal of Acceptance. That's because toothbrushes that have earned the ADA Seal have been thoroughly evaluated for their safety and effectiveness. To qualify for the... More -
Dr. De Vizio of Colgate answered:When choosing a manual toothbrush, look for one with a comfortable handle (you might prefer a long, wide handle) and soft bristles. Soft bristles are important because harder ones can damage your gums. Your toothbrush should fit comfortably in your mouth and allow you to reach all areas of your mouth including your back teeth. If you have a small mouth, choose a toothbrush with a small head.
Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, before the bristles become frayed. Also replace your toothbrush after an illness since it can harbor germs.When choosing a manual toothbrush, look for one with a comfortable handle (you might prefer a long, wide handle) and soft bristles. Soft bristles are important because harder ones can damage your gums. Your toothbrush should fit comfortably in your... More -
Dr. Jonathan B. Levine answered:If you prefer to use a standard manual toothbrush, there are some characteristics you should look for when purchasing one.
- E-Z GRIP: It should have a handle that's easy to grip and long enough so as not to make the action of brushing awkward.
- HEAD SPACE: It should have a marginally small head so it can easily reach every spot.
- SOFT TOUCH: Its bristles should be soft with rounded ends and lie at a 45-degree angle to the teeth to allow you to easily and gently move it between the gum and teeth in a non-aggressive sideways motion.
Manual brush recommendations: Colgate, Oral B
If you prefer to use a standard manual toothbrush, there are some characteristics you should look for when purchasing one. E-Z GRIP: It should have a handle that's easy to grip and long enough so as not to make the action of brushing... More -
Dr. R. Tom Glass answered:Our research studies of the toothbrush have shown that the most ideal toothbrush is one that has both a clear handle and brush-head and clear bristles. This allows light to penetrate the toothbrush and lesson the contamination of the toothbrush by disease-producing germs. Additional studies have shown that the bristles become sharp and jagged after only 2 weeks of use and have the maximum number of germs that can actually harm the teeth and gums. From these research studies, we recommend that toothbrushes be changed every 2 weeks.
Dr. G.
Our research studies of the toothbrush have shown that the most ideal toothbrush is one that has both a clear handle and brush-head and clear bristles. This allows light to penetrate the toothbrush and lesson the contamination of the toothbrush... More
