Buying a toothbrush can be daunting, with up to 400 different kinds on the market. There are fat ones, skinny ones, brushes that surround your teeth, ones that hang up and ones that sit up on the counter. There are also all kinds of electric toothbrushes that brush your teeth for you.
Oral-B is even promoting a Bluetooth-connected toothbrush. The innovative brush connects with the company’s app and provides a brushing timer. It also records brushing activity into a chart you can share with your dentist.
But despite the high-tech options out there, Consumer Reports ShopSmart says when you buy a toothbrush the basics are the most important.
Opt for soft bristles because hard bristles can damage your gums and tooth enamel. Also, angled bristles of different heights can help reach spots that flat bristles can’t. As well, a toothbrush with a bent neck can make it easier to reach behind and around your teeth.
As for the question of electric toothbrushes versus manual, ShopSmart says they both work equally well.
Far more important than which toothbrush you buy is the time you take to use it. The key is to use them twice a day, for about two minutes each time. And remember to replace your toothbrushes every three months, or sooner, if you notice it’s fraying and wearing out.
