Our dental clinic is open and you can read our COVID-safe procedures here.
We have unfortunately had to temporarily stop our beauty treatments in line with Government regulations. All existing appointments will be rescheduled.
When it comes to choosing a toothbrush, everything seems simple until you see the vast selection of products available. It can be difficult to decide which one will work the best for you and your teeth.
Choosing the right toothbrush is essential for maintaining good oral health. The right brush will help you to remove plaque effectively while reducing your risk of gum recession and enamel abrasion.
The toothbrush menu includes choice on different bristle types, brush head sizes as well as manual, battery and electric models. There is also a difference in the technology on offer in the electric models which can offer different cleaning modes, an oral care app and a pressure sensor. Some brushes have a sonic cleaning action while others either oscillate or rotate.
Knowing what to look for ensures you invest your money wisely, and time spent on oral care gives you the best results possible.
When selecting a toothbrush, many factors impact how comfortably and effectively you clean your teeth. Here are some to keep in mind:
1. Bristle Firmness
The type of bristles on your brush plays an essential role in protecting your teeth and gums. Soft or sensitive rounded bristles are most highly recommended. They provide effective cleaning without causing damage. It’s worth noting here that it's your technique that cleans your teeth effectively and not how hard the bristles are. Hard bristles may seem like they are doing a better job but risk gum recession and enamel abrasion over time. Combining both short and long bristles in the same brush head is thought to result in a more thorough clean.
2. Brush Head Size
A toothbrush with a smaller, compact head is better at targeting hard-to-reach areas, such as your molar teeth at the back of your mouth.
3. Handle Design
A comfortable and ergonomic handle can make brushing easier and more effective. Look for a toothbrush with a non-slip grip, especially if you have dexterity issues or conditions like arthritis. A well-designed handle ensures better control, helping you maintain the correct brushing technique for optimal oral health.
4. Electric Vs Manual
Both electric and manual toothbrushes can be effective, but electric models tend to offer better plaque removal due to the technology package that comes with the brush.
The main features of an electric brush are:
If an electric toothbrush is not for you then a soft or extra soft manual toothbrush with a small head would be my choice. I would recommend that this is used in conjunction with a timer, so you spend a full two-minute cleaning to ensure you have done a good job.
Choosing the right toothbrush can make a big difference in maintaining a healthy mouth, but everyone’s oral needs are different. Here are some specific factors to consider based on your dental situation:
1. Implants or Composite Bonding
If you have implants or composite bonding, it’s important to use a toothbrush that cleans effectively without causing any damage. A soft-bristled toothbrush is the best choice, as it helps to avoid scratching composite material or irritating the gums around implants. Electric toothbrushes with a sensitive or gum care mode provide gentle but thorough cleaning, helping to maintain your teeth’s restorations. Opting for a smaller brush head can also improve precision, allowing you to clean around implants and bonded teeth more effectively.
2. Retainers
If you have fixed retainers, an electric toothbrush can help clean around the wire and prevent plaque build-up.
3. Sensitive Teeth
Tooth sensitivity requires a gentle approach to brushing. An extra soft-bristled toothbrush is the best option, as it cleans effectively without causing further discomfort. Some electric toothbrushes also feature a sensitive mode, which reduces pressure and provides a gentler cleaning experience.
4. Gum Disease
If you’re dealing with gum disease or have inflamed gums, using the right toothbrush can help to prevent further inflammation. Soft or extra-soft bristles are ideal, as they provide a thorough clean while being gentle on the gums. An electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor can also help as you will know how much pressure is needed to clean your teeth without over doing it. The 2-minute timer will also encourage a thorough clean along with the tracking option available on some brushes, so you know you have removed harmful plaque bacteria.
Do Cleaning Modes Matter?
Many electric toothbrushes come with different cleaning modes, such as whitening, gum care or deep clean. While these features can be helpful, they are not essential. By choosing a toothbrush tailored to your specific needs, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy while ensuring your daily routine is as effective and comfortable as possible.
How Often Should You Replace Your Toothbrush or Toothbrush Heads?
No matter which toothbrush you choose, replacing it regularly is vital for good oral hygiene. It is recommended to change your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles become frayed. Worn-out bristles lose their effectiveness, making it harder to remove plaque and debris. Additionally, old toothbrushes can harbour bacteria, which may increase the risk of oral infection. If you have an electric model, then we recommend you change the heads every three months.
Overall, the best toothbrush is one that effectively removes plaque while being comfortable to use. Whether you choose a manual or electric option, the key to maintaining a healthy mouth is using a toothbrush twice a day for 2 minutes with a methodical but gentle technique.
If you’re unsure which toothbrush is best for your specific dental needs, speak with your dentist or hygienist for personalised recommendations. A professional can help you choose the right toothbrush and ensure your oral care routine supports long-term dental health.
Smile Hub’s Expert Recommendation:
The Oral B IO Electric Toothbrush Series
These brushes combine advanced oscillating-rotating technology with micro-vibrations for a deep and effective clean. It features a smart pressure sensor to protect gums, an interactive display for real-time feedback, and AI-driven brushing recognition to ensure thorough coverage. Its gentle yet powerful action helps remove more plaque than a manual toothbrush reducing your risk of gum disease.
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8a Brushfield Street
London
E1 6AN
Monday
8:30am - 7:00pm
Tuesday
7:30am - 5:30pm
Wednesday
8:30am - 5:30pm
Thursday
8:30am - 5:30pm
Friday
7:30am - 5:30pm
Saturday
8:30am - 5:30pm
Sunday
Closed
Linklaters Wellness Centre
2nd Floor Milton House
One Silk Street
London
EC2Y 8HQ
Tuesday - Thursday
9am - 5pm
Monday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday
Closed