Privacy Policy

Tallahassee, FL and Thomasville, GA dentist Tom C. Sexton, DMD, PA

How do I choose the right toothbrush?

There are a lot of choices when it comes to purchasing a toothbrush, which makes it difficult to know what to look for. A good starting point is to ask Dr. Sexton and our Hygienists for a recommendation.

In addition, here are some tips on what to look for:

Choose a toothbrush with a small brush-head and a bristle design that helps you to get to the hard-to-reach places of your mouth.
Your toothbrush should have soft bristles that are gentle on your teeth and gums.
Pick a toothbrush with a comfortable handle. Many have non-slip grips which make them easy to use even if wet.

Remember that regular replacement of toothbrushes contributes to maintaining a consistently high level of oral hygiene. Clinical research proves a new toothbrush can remove up to 30% more plaque than one that 's three months old.

Tips for Brushing

Brush for at least 2 minutes each time to thoroughly clean all tooth surfaces.
Brush your tongue using a back-to-front sweeping method to remove food particles and freshen your mouth.
Remember to gently brush the roof of your mouth.

Brushing with orthodontics (braces)

Brush at least 2 times per day for 2 minutes-always before bed
Use a small (pea size) amount of toothpaste on your toothbrush.
Hold the brush at angle to brush above and below the wire so bristles go under the wire.
Use circular motion.
Don't forget to brush along the gum line.

Click on how to:

Floss
Power brushing
Manual brushing

To learn more, click on the products below that Dr. Sexton recommends:


Colgate "Wave"	Oral B/Crest "Stages"	Oral-B power toothbrush
Rota-dent power brush
Sonicare UV Sanitizer (To sanitize your toothbrush)
Cordless Sonic Cleaner for Orthodontic retainers The Cordless Sonic Cleaner gets dental orthodontic appliances sparkling clean in 5-10 minutes. The Corldless Sonic Cleaner cleans where brushes can't reach.

Please contact us if you have any questions about choosing a toothbrush that's right for you.

© Copyright 2003- Dental WebSmith, Inc., Tom C. Sexton, DMD, PA (Florida), and Tom C. Sexton, DMD, PC (Georgia). All rights reserved. Disclaimer: The information provided within is intended to help you better understand dental conditions and procedures. It is not meant to serve as delivery of medical or dental care. If you have specific questions or concerns, contact your health care provider.