It's important that you brush and floss regularly to maintain excellent oral health. However, you may not be aware that your toothbrush plays a big part in how clean you'll be able to get your teeth. You may think that any toothbrush will get the job done, but you should put some thought into selecting the right toothbrush for you.

Pick The Right Kind of Bristles

You'll notice at the store that toothbrush bristles can be hard, medium, or soft. Don't make the assumption that hard bristles will do the best job at cleaning your teeth. The ADA recommends that you use a toothbrush that has soft bristles. It will have more flexibility, making it better at removing plaque and debris from all of your teeth.

Pick The Right Head Shape

Toothbrushes are also made in many different shapes, with there being big differences in head shape. Sometimes selecting a toothbrush with the right kind of head takes some guesswork. The head should be able to reach the rear molars quite easily, which will depend on the shape of your mouth. You may need a brush that is narrower at the end to reach those molars, or you might prefer one that is wider if it can fit.

Pick A Quality Brush Brand

Don't assume that all toothbrushes have similar bristles when making your selection. You may be able to save a few dollars by going with the cheapest brush, but you'll find that the bristles will fray much easier and become less effective. Toothbrushes are cheap, even for brushes made by trusted manufacturers, so be sure to get a toothbrush you know will last over the next few months.

Pick The Right Toothbrush For Your Kids

A mistake that parents can make when selecting toothbrushes for their kids is giving them another brush from a multi-pack of toothbrushes for adults. These toothbrushes are not made with the shape of a child's mouth in mind. They'll need something that is smaller and can reach all corners of their mouth, so make sure to get them a kid-sized toothbrush made just for them. Consider getting a brush with their favorite character on it if it motivates them to brush regularly.

Pick An Electric Toothbrush

Sometimes it can be worth it to pick an electric toothbrush that has a powerful brushing motion. This can be great for kids that are less motivated to brush or adults that have hand injuries. While they cost much more than a regular brush, they can be worth it if they contribute to quality brushing.

Make sure that you also schedule regular dental cleanings at a local clinic.