A toothbrush is a small object that is needed by everyone. Toothbrushes are available in various shapes and colors, including manual and electric ones. When choosing a toothbrush you will probably choose it based on your favorite color. However, did you know that behind the various shapes and colors of toothbrushes, there are functions of each of these toothbrush shapes?
Toothbrush shape and function
A toothbrush consists of two parts, namely the head which contains the bristles, and the handle of the brush.
Brush head shape
The brush head is divided into two shapes, namely the conventional shape (box) and the oval shape. The conventional form is designed to be able to clean every tooth surface. Meanwhile, the oval shape is designed to be able to clean the back teeth easily.
This toothbrush with two head shapes, and both can clean teeth well. What should be considered when choosing a toothbrush is the size of the brush head which must match the size of the oral cavity. The older a person is, the larger the oral cavity, and the larger the size of the brush head. Small children should use a brush with the smallest brush head size.
Brush handle shape
There are various shapes 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 handle which is easier to control.
- Counter angle handle. There is a corner in the center of the handle near the brush head. The handle is designed to make the toothbrush easier to grip and to help reach the brush into areas of the teeth that 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 gripped. The shape of this handle aims to prevent the toothbrush from slipping out of the grip during brushing.
Brush bristles pattern
Try to pay attention to the bristles of the toothbrush when you buy it. There are various patterns, colors, and types of these feathers. Broadly speaking, the following is a pattern of toothbrush bristles.
- Block pattern. The bristles of the brush are the same length and neatly arranged like blocks.
- Wavy pattern or V shape. This pattern is intended so that the bristles can reach the area around the adjacent tooth surface.
- Graded cutting pattern. Usually, there are 2 types of bristles, the lower bristles and the higher bristles which are finer. This pattern aims 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 brush bristles pattern above is designed to meet different needs. When you buy a toothbrush, pay attention to the pattern of the bristles of the brush to suit your needs.
In addition to patterns, toothbrush bristles also consist of various types, namely hard, medium, and fine types. Many dentists recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush, and for someone who has sensitive teeth or gums or who is recovering from dental work, it is recommended to use an extra-fine bristle. However, some people prefer harder bristles to remove plaque and dirt from their teeth. However, hard bristles can damage tooth enamel and allow teeth to become cavities, and cause other dental problems.
Tips for choosing a toothbrush
There are many toothbrushes in various shapes, sizes, and colors on the market, but choose a toothbrush according to your needs. Here are tips on choosing a toothbrush.
- Pay attention to the bristles of the brush. Usually, there is a description of the type of bristles on the toothbrush packaging. We recommend choosing soft bristles for safe and comfortable use. Hard-to-moderate bristles can injure the gums, root surfaces, and tooth enamel. Soft bristles can also help remove plaque and stains on teeth.
- Pay attention to the size of the brush head. Choose the size of the brush head according to the size of your oral cavity.
- For the selection of the shape of the head, the shape of the handle, and the pattern of the bristles of the brush, choose the one that makes you 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 your teeth.
How long does it take to change a toothbrush?
It’s a good idea to change 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. Changing your toothbrush is important because the bristles can become a place for germs to gather that can cause infection. Broken bristles are no longer comfortable to use and are not effective for cleaning teeth.