What Is the Best Toothbrush?

If you’ve ever stood in the toothbrush aisle feeling overwhelmed by the endless choices—manual vs electric, soft vs medium bristles, angled heads vs straight—you’re not alone.

Choosing the best toothbrush isn’t just about fancy features. It’s about what actually keeps your gums healthy and your smile bright.

Quick Answer: What’s the Best Toothbrush?

Electric and manual toothbrushes are both effective if you use them with the right technique.

A comprehensive review published in Periodontology 2000 summarized decades of scientific studies. Here’s what they found

How to use a manual toothbrush?

Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and move it gently up and down or circular motions. Make sure to reach all areas of the teeth.

How to use an electric toothbrush?

Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to your gum line and gently guide it tooth by tooth, letting it clean each surface for about 3 seconds without scrubbing.

Both techniques should be used with a fluoride toothpaste twice a day for 2 minutes.

What About Flossing?

Interdental brushes are more effective than floss for most people.

What If You’re Buying for a Child?

Power brushes generally perform better, especially with supervision. However, it’s also important to teach children how to use a mechanical toothbrush.

Final Takeaway:

– Choose your toothbrush according to your preference. Don’t forget to choose the right toothpaste for your needs—check out our article “Does Toothpaste Really Make a Difference?”

– Brush 2x day for 2 minutes.

– Change your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months, or sooner if:

Reminder:

Book an appointment with your dentist for a professional cleaning every 6 months.

Reference

Rajwani A. R., Hawes S. N. D., To A., Quaranta A., Rincon Aguilar J. C. (2020). Effectiveness of Manual Toothbrushing Techniques on Plaque and Gingivitis: A Systematic Review. Oral Health & Preventive Dentistry, 18(1), 843–854.
Preda C, Butera A, Pelle S, Pautasso E, Chiesa A, Esposito F, Oldoini G, Scribante A, Genovesi AM, Cosola S. The Efficacy of Powered Oscillating Heads vs. Powered Sonic Action Heads Toothbrushes to Maintain Periodontal and Peri‑Implant Health: A Narrative Review. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021;18(4):1468.