Standing in front of the toothbrush shelf, it’s easy to draw a blank. Here are the four things that actually matter.
Soft bristles, almost always
Soft bristles clean just as well as hard ones and are far gentler on enamel and gums. Hard or medium bristles — especially if you brush firmly — can wear the tooth near the gumline and cause the gum to recede over the years.
If in doubt, choose “soft” or “extra soft”.
A head that reaches everywhere
The head should be small enough to reach the back molars and the inner surfaces of your teeth without straining your jaw. In general, a more compact head gives you more control than a large one.
Manual or electric: both work
A manual brush, used well, cleans perfectly. An electric brush mainly helps people who brush too hard (many warn you with a light or a buzz) or who have limited dexterity. It isn’t essential, but if it motivates you to brush better, it’s worth it.
Replace it every 3 months
Once the bristles splay or flatten, the brush stops cleaning properly. Replace it every three months, or sooner if it looks worn, and always after a throat infection or a cold.
Technique matters more than the brush: two minutes, twice a day, gentle movements, and don’t forget the gumline. If you’d like us to check your technique or the state of your gums, book an assessment.