3 Ways to Choose a Toothbrush (2024)

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Medically reviewed byTu Anh Vu, DMD

Last Updated: October 21, 2021References

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   Make sure your toothbrush works for the shape of your mouth. Based on past toothbrushes, you should have some idea of the general shape of your mouth. Some mouths are more narrow or wide than others, and you need a toothbrush that works for your mouth and teeth.^[1]

   • You want a brush that can comfortably reach the back of your molars. The shape of your mouth, and whether it's wider or narrower, will affect how easily a given brush can reach your molars.
   • Go for a brush with an appropriate sized handle. If you, for example, have a very narrow, somewhat long mouth, you will need a toothbrush with a wider handle. You will probably feel more comfortable with smaller toothbrushes, but make sure the handle also has a good grip.
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   Keep the size of your mouth in mind. Mouths vary in size. If you have an average-sized mouth, most conventional toothbrushes will probably work for you. However, if you have a very big or very small mouth, take this into consideration when selecting a toothbrush.^[2]

   • Most people can use a toothbrush with a head that measures 0.50-inch wide and 1-inch high. This can reach the back of most people's mouths without problem. However, if you've had issues with toothbrushes being too big or too small in the past, take this into consideration.
   • If you have a bigger or smaller than average mouth, opt for a slightly bigger or slightly smaller toothbrush.

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   Look at the angle of the toothbrush. Some toothbrushes are designed to be held at a particular angle. Some consumers find a slightly tilted toothbrush allows them to more easily hit certain areas of the mouth. However, you should not purchase a toothbrush you do not know how to use. Unless you have a strong preference for an angled brush, and have used one before, opt for a standard toothbrush. The ideal toothbrush is always one you can easily use.^[3]

   • Also, keep in mind that the more plastic bristles you can see, the better the cleaning will be. This is because rubber bristles are less effective when brushing a tooth surface.
4. See Also

   You Have To Brush Twice a Day—Enjoy the Process More With The Best Editor-Tested ToothbrushesThe Best Electric Toothbrush5 Best Electric Toothbrushes to Make Your Dentist ProudChoosing a Toothbrush: The Pros and Cons of Electric and Disposable

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   Select a handle you like. You're less likely to brush your teeth effectively if you dislike your toothbrush's handle. Go for a toothbrush with a soft handle that's easy to hold. If you struggle to hold your toothbrush, you're likely to stop brushing your teeth prematurely and also to use bad brushing technique, which can damage your teeth.^[4]

   • Unfortunately, you usually cannot remove a toothbrush from the package to examine it. However, you can inspect the toothbrush's handle closely from inside the box.

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   Pick out the extras you want. Is there a special feature you feel you'll use? If you're, say, preoccupied with bad breath, you may want a toothbrush with a tongue cleaner. If you're environmentally conscious, you may want a toothbrush that's easily recyclable and made from organic materials.^[5]

   • Most drug stores and supermarkets sell a wide variety of toothbrushes, so finding special feature is rarely a problem. You can browse the selection at a drugstore near you to find a toothbrush that suits your needs.
   • However, not all special feature are available at every store. If you're looking for a very niche feature, you may have to purchase a toothbrush online.
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   Think about a manual versus an electronic toothbrush. Manual toothbrushes are operated just with your hands. Electronic toothbrushes have a motor that moves the bristles for you as you move the toothbrush over your mouth. Decide whether you want an electronic or manual toothbrush.^[6]

   • The main benefit of an electronic toothbrush is it can give you a deeper clean. It's also great if you have a condition like arthritis, as electronic toothbrushes do much of the work for you.^[7]
   • Electronic toothbrushes tend to be expensive, however, and the heads need to be replaced every three to four months. If you're on a tight budget, and do not have any health conditions that make brushing your teeth difficult, you may want to opt for a manual toothbrush.
   • Another major disadvantage of having an electronic toothbrush is that you might forget how to brush properly. The most effective brushing technique is still the manual one where you can brush your teeth and gums using vertical strokes.
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   Remember cost when selecting special features. Most toothbrushes should be replaced every three to four months. When selecting special features, keep the cost in mind. While a toothbrush with a tongue cleaner may seem convenient, if it's twice as expensive as a regular toothbrush, it may not be worth the money. Instead, you could spend a few bucks on floss or and interdental brush. You can clean your tongue with a conventional toothbrush and save yourself some money.^[8]

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   Check the label. You should see a seal from the American Dental Association (ADA) on the label of any quality toothbrush. These toothbrushes have been examined for safety and efficiency. Do not get a toothbrush without an ADA seal.^[9]

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   Opt for softer bristles. While toothbrushes come in a variety of bristle strengths, you should usually opt for softer bristles. This is less taxing on your gums and tooth enamel. Go for a soft bristle brush over a hard or medium bristle brush.^[10]

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   Avoid very cheap toothbrushes. Some toothbrushes sell for less than a dollar. You can also sometimes find packs of toothbrushes for very cheap. These toothbrushes are not as high quality as other types of brushes, and some of them may not even have an ADA seal. It is worth paying a little extra money for a quality product.^[11]

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   Remember other fundamentals of tooth care. A toothbrush is just one component of oral hygiene. Make sure to also invest in quality floss and mouthwash. This is important for optimal tooth health.^[12]

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