There are a few important tips to help you when picking your next toothbrush.
It has been said that you don't have to brush all your teeth just the ones you want to keep.
That might not be the best piece of advice, but Conumer Reports has some helpful advice when buying a toothbrush.
There are a lot of choices in the stores and online. Drugstore.com lists more than 400 different kinds; fat ones, skinny ones, brushes that surround your teeth, ones that hang up and others that sit up on the counter all by themselves.
And of course there are all kinds of electric toothbrushes that brush your teeth for you.
Oral-B is even promoting a Bluetooth-connected toothbrush.
"And your toothbrush easily connects to your phone so that you can receive reminders," said Jody Rohlena, Consumer Reports.
Consumer Reports ShopSmart says when you buy a toothbrush most important are the basics.
"You want soft bristles. Hard bristles can damage your gums and your tooth enamel," said Rohlena.
Also, angled bristles of different heights help reach spots that flat bristles cannot, and a toothbrush with a bent neck can make it easier to reach behind and around your teeth.
As for the question "electric versus manual?"
"They both work equally well according to research. You just have to use them twice a day for about two minutes each time," said Rohlena.
Far more important than which toothbrush you buy is taking the time to use it. Don't rush your brushing.
And remember to replace your toothbrushes every three months; sooner, if you notice it is fraying and wearing out.
