If you are the type of person who pays close attention to their oral health, you know the important role your toothbrush plays. In this article, Dr. Hessa Alkandari takes you through all the information there is to know about your toothbrush.
A toothbrush comes in all shapes and sizes. It also exists in electrical and manual form. Dr. Alkandari starts by stating the importance of brushing your teeth daily and twice a day. This helps to get rid of bacteria and plaque that could eventually lead to tooth decay and gingivitis if not cleaned properly.
When should I start brushing my child’s teeth?
As soon as a baby’s first tooth appears, parents should start the habit of brushing. A soft cloth or a soft toothbrush and water can be used. At 18 months, parents can start using a pea-sized amount of low-fluoride toothpaste to brush their child’s teeth.
Manual or electric toothbrush?
Dr. Alkandari states that choosing between a manual and an electric toothbrush depends on your preference. Both types of toothbrushes can effectively clean your teeth. It actually all depends on you! People who find it difficult to use a manual toothbrush may find a powered one more comfortable.
In conclusion
According to Dr. Alkandari, we have a wide choice of toothbrushes to choose from. One thing is for certain, they should be changed every 4 to 6 months. After using a toothbrush for 6 months, it begins to fray, lose its integrity, and become less effective. Many toothbrushes have bristles that change color, letting you know it’s time to replace them.
Last but not least, Dr. Alkandari insists that the most important habit is to ALWAYS make sure you brush your teeth twice a day! Two to three minutes in the morning, and two to three minutes in the evening go a long way to preserve your dental health and keep your smile healthy!
