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Your toothbrush is wearing out and it’s time for a new one. So, off you go to the local supermarket or drug store to make your choice. But how do you decide when there are dozens of choices?

• Pick one that’s your favorite color?
• Pick the cheapest one?
• Pick the most expensive one because, surely that the best one?
• Get the one that rotates, vibrates and sings to you while you brush?

All nice ideas but…no.

While it’s fine to think about color, cost, and high-tech options, your toothbrush needs to work for your teeth, gums, and mouth.

1. Make sure your brush can get everywhere you need to reach in your mouth that a brush can get to. Manual brushes are fine and less costly but power brushes are okay too. Just be careful not to overdo with the power brush and wear down your tooth enamel.
2. Look at the size of the brush head. If you have a smaller mouth or especially if you are buying a brush for a younger person, choose a brush head that will accommodate the space in the mouth.
3. Brush handles are important. Brush handles can have angles that help you reach those hard to get at places and some have flexible handles that can help as well. Pick one that fits the size and shape of your hand.
4. Bristles: The most important thing is to get a brush with soft bristles. Many people assume that the harder the bristles are, the more effectively they will clean the teeth. The opposite is true. Harder bristles can wear down your teeth. Bristles should be able to bend so they can get under the gums and not wear the enamel so soft is more effective. The bristles remove bacteria and loosen plaque from your teeth and gums. Plaque can cause gum disease which can lead to tooth decay. Brush gently and hold the toothbrush like you would hold a pencil. Death grips are not necessary. ????

Finally, always look for the American Dental Association seal of approval when purchasing a toothbrush and if it’s that neon green color that matches your shower curtain, that’s cool too.

Remember, for all your toothy needs, contact the great folks at Breezy Bay Dental of Palm Harbor. You’ll be treated like one of the family.