Choosing a Toothbrush: What You Need to Know | Schnecksville Dentist

When trying to maintain a bright and healthy smile, it is important to have the best equipment for your particular situation. So, we purchase fluoride mouthwash and ADA approved toothpaste in our favorite flavor. But what about a toothbrush? After all, there seems to be endless options to choose from. Fortunately, there are a handful of things to consider when you purchase your next toothbrush. Because having the ideal toothbrush will definitely make a difference at your next dental appointment.

Brush head. Firstly, the head of your toothbrush is going to need to fit inside your mouth in such a way that you will be able to maneuver around your mouth in order to be able to clean all of your teeth thoroughly. Additionally, find a model that has a grip you like as well. The easier it is for you to hit hard-to-reach teeth, the healthier your mouth will be.

Bristles. Toothbrushes typically have three bristle types – soft, medium and hard. You may think that using hard bristles will clean better, but they can cause damage to your gums if you aren’t careful. Best bet is to choose soft, rounded bristles.

ADA approved. The American Dental Association is the leading authority when it comes to the best products for today’s patients. Make sure that the toothbrush you choose is ADA approved to ensure that you’re using the best equipment.

Manual or electric. When it comes to choosing a manual or electric, it really depends on the patient. For many older patients that may have arthritic issues, an electric option may be best. But this is purely a personal choice.

If you still have trouble deciding which toothbrush to choose, ask your dental professional.

For more information about toothbrushes, call Dr. Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.

Dr. Sandip Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.

A Healthy Smile Starts from Day One | Schnecksville Dentist

When we think about dental health, we don’t necessarily think it begins from the day we are born. But it’s true – our dental health begins from birth. And since February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, let’s take a look at the ways you can ensure your child has a healthy mouth from day one. After all, the earlier we instill good dental habits, the easier it will be to carry those habits on throughout their lives.

Infants may not have teeth, but that doesn’t mean that we should ignore their dental health. Wipe down their gums with a soft cloth after each feeding until their first teeth break through, then use a soft-bristled toothbrush with some water. One major issue infants face is baby bottle tooth decay – this can be avoided by limiting milk or sweetened liquids during sleeping hours and sticking to water instead.

If your child has a habit of sucking their thumb or a pacifier, there may be a chance of tooth misalignment. Because this is due to the act of sucking, it is important to try to wean them off bottles and these other habits around one year. As your child turns a year, it is time to start planning on their first dental visit. A great idea is to plan the appointment after naptime to ensure a calm, happy baby.

Once the baby teeth really begin to show, it’s time to start teaching good dental habits and the best way to do that is by example. Make this a family affair – turn on a little tune and brush for at least two minutes. Good dental hygiene leads to good dental health.

For more information about pediatric dental hygiene, call Dr. Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.

Dr. Sandip Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.