[Nebagakid]

I am curious as to what the most effective tooth brush quality is? Is it when you get the brush right out of the packaging, or is it when you have used it for a few days and it is broken in? Are there any dental hygienists out there?

[Stradlater]

Toothbrushes should be replaced every 3 months or so. Most people do not brush their teeth correctly. Always use SOFT bristles and GENTLY brush in a circular motion. Most people brush vigorously and quickly, but this can cause permanent gum damage.

Brand new bristles are going to be stiffer and can damage your gums more readily, but are, perhaps, slightly more effective at scraping gunk off your teeth. In the end, as long as your toothbrush is less than 6 months old, it should be rather effective.

[kikkoman]

How about those ultrasonic toothbrushes? I've been thinking about getting one. Are they that more effective than a plain old toothbrush?

[rozwado1]

I have an Oral B automatic brush and I'd say it works better than a regular toothbrush. Mine simply rotates, but I've seen some that do all kinds of movement. I'd go as far as saying that it's in my top 10 purchases under $100.

Combine that with baking soda toothpaste, floss, a tongue scraper, and a dental pick and you've got clean teeth.

[tooki]

Originally Posted by Stradlater

Most people do not brush their teeth correctly. Always use SOFT bristles and GENTLY brush in a circular motion.

My dentists always said not to brush in a circular motion. They said the best is to brush with straight strokes away from the gumline (i.e. brushing straight down for the upper teeth).

tooki

[Stradlater]

Originally Posted by tooki

My dentists always said not to brush in a circular motion. They said the best is to brush with straight strokes away from the gumline (i.e. brushing straight down for the upper teeth).

tooki

Makes sense. The circular motion would be most damaging if you're a vigorous brusher. Soft, slow brushing shouldn't be a problem, though. Still, something to keep in mind.