Should I be keen on the toothbrush I use?

Dr. Maria Gorretti Nakyoni

It is important you brush your teeth a minimum of twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste and a good toothbrush.

But what really is a good toothbrush is?

Qualities of a good toothbrush:

• Size: shape of the head of the toothbrush often makes no difference. However, smaller heads are able to reach the most back teeth (wisdom teeth) easier than toothbrushes with bigger heads.You should be able to reach all teeth easily.
• Select a toothbrush head size that can easily fit into the mouth and can brush one to two teeth at a time.
• Handle: a good toothbrush should have a handle long enough to provide comfort in the hand as one is brushing.

• Bristles: if you think that hard bristled toothbrushes are the ones to use, then you are wrong. Any toothbrush you choose should have soft bristles enough for effective cleaning and safe for the gums.
• Powered versus manual: powered toothbrushes don’t clean any better than manual toothbrushes. If you are able to brush, i.e. you are not physically and mentally handicapped, then better you use the manual toothbrush since you will be in full control of the brushing.
• NB: Don’t forget to change your toothbrush every three months.
• Powered toothbrushes are equally good though better for people who are physically and mentally handicapped. However heavy hand electric toothbrushes cause risks of enamel (outer layer of the tooth) wear.

Dr Nakyoni is a dental surgeon