As the new year begins, it is the perfect time for a fresh start. While you may be thinking about your exercise habits or your diet plan, you should also consider your oral health. One of the best (and easiest) ways to start the new year off right with your smile is to purchase a new toothbrush.
Here are four reasons why buying a new toothbrush can lay the groundwork for a healthier and more confident smile this year:
#1 Leave Behind Bacteria
Unless you just recently changed it out, there’s a solid chance that your toothbrush is carrying bacteria within its bristles. Considering that you use it twice a day to remove countless food particles and germs from your mouth, it makes sense to learn that that bacteria doesn’t always get removed from your brush once you’re done. This can also be true if you store your toothbrush close to someone else’s toothbrush or even too close to the toilet! A new toothbrush means a clean toothbrush!
#2 Straighten Up Your Bristles
One of the best benefits to using a new toothbrush is that you’ll have stronger bristles that aren’t frayed like your old version. When bristles are worn out and bending away from your teeth, they can hardly do the job of removing plaque and bacteria – which are the primary culprits to decay and gum disease.
#3 Upgrade to a Powered Model
Manual toothbrushes are absolutely sufficient for cleaning your teeth and gums. However, many patients find that an electric or power-operated toothbrush can maximize both efficiency and effectiveness, especially if you have dexterity or arthritis issues. A power toothbrush delivers much more strokes per minutes with less coordination and movement of your hands and arms.
#4 Go Harder or Go Softer
You probably realize by now that toothbrushes come in soft, medium or hard bristles. Have you considered which one is best for you? Most people are best with soft or medium bristles, but asking your dentist will give you better direction for your purchase. For example, if you are using a hard-bristled brush and you suffer from receding gums, your dentist will likely ask you to “go softer.” Before you select your new year’s toothbrush, it is important to know which type of bristles are best for your specific dental needs.
We hope that buying a new toothbrush is a New Year’s resolution you can keep. Make sure you are using your new toothbrush for two minutes, twice a day. Your dental hygiene habits at home are just one component of your oral health care. You’ll also need to watch your eating habits as well as visit your dentist two times this year. Start now and schedule your routine dental exam at Manhattan Dental Design!
Posted on behalf of Manhattan Dental Design