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Toothbrushes come in all sizes and shapes: they have electric toothbrushes, decorated ones, basic-looking ones, and advanced ones with a tongue scraper on the back. There are even some ecological toothbrushes made from wood! With such a wide variety, finding the best one for your oral health can be hard. Luckily, your dentist in East Nashville is here to finally end the discussion.  

The next time you buy a new toothbrush, look at the bristles instead of the appearance. There are three types: soft, medium, and hard. Each has its own set of benefits and disadvantages. 

Here´s how to find out which one is for you!

Which Bristle Toothbrush Should I Use? 

Soft Bristled-Toothbrush

Most dentists advise using a toothbrush with soft bristles in your oral hygiene regimen. Soft-bristle brushes will not scratch the enamel on your teeth or irritate your gums, causing bleeding. 

This is very important, considering most people don’t brush their teeth correctly and tend to overdo it with strength. Brushing too hard can lead to gum recession, and the lost tissue will never return. 

So, look for a toothbrush with soft bristles when making your choice. This will preserve your gums and tooth structure, reducing the possibility of exposed dentin or roots that could cause excruciating pain when the temperature changes. This is crucial to make brushing fun.

Medium Bristled-Toothbrush

Medium-bristled toothbrushes aren’t really the best toothbrushes out there. They are a bit stiffer than a soft-bristled toothbrush but softer than a hard-bristled one. Still, this hardness is enough to damage your enamel if you brush too vigorously. 

If you want to use a medium-bristle toothbrush, ask your dentist and hygienist how to brush properly to prevent damage to your teeth. 

Hard Bristled-Toothbrush

Hard-bristled toothbrushes aren’t as common nowadays, and there’s a reason for that! Most recognizable toothbrush companies avoid selling them, as harder bristles are more likely to damage your gums and tooth enamel. While they work wonders at removing food particles and plaque, these types of toothbrushes are too harsh for natural teeth. 

When Are Medium and Hard Bristled Brushed Useful?

You’re probably wondering why medium- and hard-bristled toothbrushes exist if they’re so dangerous for your teeth and gums. 

Some people like to use a toothbrush with medium or hard bristles to clean artificial teeth, such as partials, dentures, nightguards, or clear aligners. Nevertheless, consult your dentist to make sure it is safe to use without breaking your pricey appliance. 

Learn From an Expert Dentist in East Nashville About the Best Toothbrush to Use

Just like in any other health field, there’s a lot of misinformation traveling around concerning dentistry. Many patients believe brushing harder equals brushing better, but that is not the case. 

The biggest danger with medium- and hard-bristled toothbrushes is that incorrect use can cause pain and sensitivity. This makes people want to avoid brushing to prevent discomfort, but that’s never a good idea. Luckily, patients are becoming more knowledgeable about the importance of taking care of their smiles and what kind of sources they can trust.  

Greenwood Local Dentistry and Orthodontics is one of them. If you have any remaining questions, reach out!