Let’s Talk Toothbrushes!

Here at South Charlotte Dentistry, we get a lot of question about toothbrushes. We know our patients are aware of the importance of brushing their teeth, but how significant is the toothbrush that you use? Over the years, dental technology continues to change and advance but one tool has remained a staple in the dental world: the toothbrush. While toothbrushes have come a long way from frayed twigs to fancy electric toothbrushes, the concept of the technology remains the same. 

Picking The Perfect Toothbrush! 

·         Size - The size of your toothbrush is important. Kids will need small toothbrushes that have a small handle, making it easy to grip onto, and a small brush to glide across the teeth comfortably. A small brush can create a more effective cleaning regimen, as it will have more contact in smaller areas of the mouth. Adults, on the other hand, will want a handle that is normal in length and a brush that is sized to fit their mouth accordingly. 

·         Texture - Texture is important! Kids will need softer brushes as their teeth come in, grow, and are lost. A soft brush is good for sensitive teeth and gums, and firm brushes are used for adults with healthy gums. When using a firm brush it is important to brush light, as too much force can damage the gums. 

·         Electric or Manual - While people certainly have strong opinions on their choice of toothbrushes, electric or manual brushes are both fine! This decision mainly comes down to personal preference and budget. An electric toothbrush tends to clean more efficiently and get in between teeth better, and is a great choice for people with sensitive gums or people that might brush too rough.

Related: Toothpaste Phobia, It’s a Real Thing!

 

Whether you are using a fancy electronic toothbrush or a regular toothbrush, what matters most is that you are brushing at least twice a day. Make sure to brush all sides of your teeth, and even your tongue, for approximately two minutes. It is also recommended that you replace your toothbrush every three months.

Schedule you routine cleaning today with South Charlotte Dentistry. We will help answer any questions you may have about your oral health, even if you want to ask us about what toothbrush you should be using! Call to make your appointment at 704-759-0908.

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Toothpaste Phobia, It’s a Real Thing!

Are you scared to brush your teeth? You are not alone, toothpaste phobia is a real thing and many people are afraid to brush their teeth. Toothpaste phobia is especially high amongst young children with sensitive taste buds and teeth. South Charlotte Dentistry wants to help you better understand the fear and provide tips for coping with the disorder. 

Sometimes, children have a hard time gaining interest in brushing their teeth. As a kid, they would much rather continue playing than have to brush their teeth. This lack of interest can cause them to act scared and they are simple not interested. To encourage children to brush their teeth it is essential to make it fun, turn it in to a game, distract them, really whatever makes them do it. There are many unique toothbrushes that can help a child actually enjoy brushing their teeth. If this doesn’t work, get creative. Brush the child’s teeth while their minds are occupied. Maybe while they are watching TV, reading, or even bathing. 

The taste! That’s a big one! Children often have very sensitive taste buds and can be rather picky when it come to the way things taste. Many children dislike mint flavored toothpaste. They may complaint that it is “too hot.” Try using a very simple toothpaste with a fruit flavor. If this doesn’t help, go toothpaste free. You actually don’t need toothpaste for brushing to be effective. Toothpaste is just the cherry on top. It doesn’t actually clean your teeth, it just make your breath fresher and there may be some whitening perks. Brushing without toothpaste will still help remove the plaque.

Finally, many children have very sensitive mouths. When brushing it may cause the child to gag. This make brushing their teeth very unpleasant. To help with this we recommend using a small toothbrush and breathing through the nose. 

If you or your child have a phobia of toothpaste or brushing your teeth we would love to speak with you about ways that we can help. South Charlotte Dentistry can many tips for patients that experience dental anxiety. Call and schedule your appointment today.

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