Toothbrush function differences based on its shape & bull; hello healthy

Toothbrush is a small item that is needed by everyone. Toothbrushes are available in various shapes and colors, including manual and electric ones. When choosing a toothbrush you may choose one based on your favorite color. However, did you know that behind the various shapes and colors of toothbrushes, there is a function for each toothbrush?

Toothbrush shape and function

Toothbrush consists of two parts, namely the head with the bristles and the handle of the brush.

Brush head shape

The brush head is divided into two forms, namely the conventional shape (box) and the oval shape. The conventional shape is designed to be able to clean every surface of the tooth. Meanwhile, the oval shape is designed to be able to clean the rear teeth easily.

This toothbrush with two head shapes, both of which can clean teeth properly. What must be considered when choosing a toothbrush is the size of the brush head which must match the size of the oral cavity . The greater the age of a person, the larger the oral cavity, the larger the size of the brush head. Young children should use a brush with the smallest brush head size.

Shape the brush handle

There are various forms of toothbrush handles, some are straight and some are slightly bent. Both aim to make it easier for users to brush their teeth.

• Straight handle. All conventional toothbrushes have a straight grip which is easier to control.
• Counter corner handle. There is an angle at the center of the handle toward the brush head. The handle is designed to make the toothbrush easier to grip and to help reach the brush to areas where teeth are difficult to clean.
• Flexible handle. Designed to reduce gum injury caused by excessive brushing force.
• The handle has a rubber-like material around it. The rubber around the brush handle is useful so that the toothbrush is not slippery when held. This shape of the handle aims to prevent the toothbrush from being held while brushing your teeth.

Bristle pattern

Try to pay attention to the bristles of the toothbrush when buying it. There are various kinds of patterns, colors, and types of these feathers. Broadly speaking, the following is the pattern of toothbrush bristles.

• Beam pattern. The bristles are the same length and are neatly arranged like blocks.
• Wavy pattern or V shape. This pattern is intended to allow the bristles to reach the area around the adjacent tooth surface.
• Multilevel cutting pattern. There are usually 2 types of bristles, the lower bristles and the finer higher bristles. This pattern is intended to allow the bristles to reach areas of the teeth that are difficult to clean.
• Alternating pattern. This pattern aims to be able to remove plaque on the teeth effectively.

The above bristle pattern, designed to meet different needs. When you buy a toothbrush, pay attention to the bristles pattern of the brush to suit your needs.

In addition to patterns, toothbrush bristles also consist of various types, namely hard, medium, and soft types. Many dentists recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush, and for someone who has sensitive teeth or gums or who is also recovering from dental work, it is recommended to use extra-fine bristles. However, some people prefer the hair tougher in order to remove plaque and dirt on the teeth. However, hard bristles can damage tooth enamel and allow cavities and other dental problems.

Tips for choosing a toothbrush

There are many toothbrushes in different shapes, sizes and colors on the market, but choose a toothbrush that suits your needs. Here are tips for choosing a toothbrush.

• Pay attention to the bristles of the brush. Usually there is a description of the type of bristles in the toothbrush package. We recommend choosing soft bristles for safe and comfortable use. Hard to moderate bristles can injure the gums, root surfaces of teeth, and tooth enamel. Soft bristles can also help remove plaque and stains on teeth.
• Pay attention to the size of the brush head. Select the size of the brush head according to the size of your oral cavity.
• For the selection of the head shape, the handle shape, and the bristle pattern, choose one that makes you feel comfortable. The most important thing is that the toothbrush can reach all parts of your mouth easily so that it can clean every surface of the tooth.

How long does it take to replace my toothbrush?

We recommend that you replace your toothbrush every three months. Usually the bristles of the brush are no longer in good shape when they have been used for a long time. It's important to change your toothbrush because the bristles can collect germs that can cause infection. Damaged bristles are no longer comfortable to use and are not effective for cleaning teeth.