The Dentist Named the Key Condition When Choosing a Toothbrush 0 16

The key condition when choosing a toothbrush (both manual and electric) is that the size of its head should not exceed the area of 2–2.5 teeth, as a head that is too large will not allow for effective cleaning of the back teeth. The rules for choosing a toothbrush were outlined by dentist Irina Antonova.

Other main parameters to consider when selecting a manual toothbrush are its stiffness and bristle shape. The stiffness ranges from very soft (for children, people with heightened tooth sensitivity, inflamed or bleeding gums (gingivitis, periodontitis)) to hard (for patients prone to rapid plaque formation). Such brushes are best used only on a doctor's recommendation.

The bristle shape varies from flat to multi-level (where tufts of different lengths are angled for better coverage of the tooth surface and cleaning of inter-dental spaces).

Antonova noted that people with good motor skills and flexible joints are well-suited to a manual toothbrush, while those with arthritis (if they find it difficult to maneuver the brush in the desired direction) are recommended to use electric or ultrasonic models. These are easier to manipulate to effectively clean all surfaces of the teeth.