The Top 3 Things to Look for in a Toothbrush, According to Dentists

Just because we brush our teeth every day — twice a day, actually — doesn't mean we always get it right. But brushing more effectively could be as simple as choosing a better tool for the job.

If you don't follow a proper, consistent brushing and flossing routine, that can lead to the accumulation of plaque, bacteria and food on your teeth and along the gum line. You might develop gum recession, gingivitis and tooth decay down the line, experts told TODAY.com previously.

Thankfully, a good toothbrush will make it much easier to stick to your oral health routine. All you need to look for are these three features in an effective toothbrush, experts say.

Dentist Tip of the Day: Look for These 3 Traits in a Toothbrush

Brushing your teeth correctly is a lot easier when you have the right toothbrush in your hands.

And, as NBC News recently reported, you should look for these specific traits in an effective toothbrush:

• Choose an electric toothbrush over a manual one.

• Look for a toothbrush with a two-minute timer function.

• Opt for a toothbrush with soft bristles.

Why It Matters

Brushing your teeth twice a day is only the first step. If you're not brushing properly or using a toothbrush that's right for your teeth, you may not be doing enough for your dental health.

It is possible to brush effectively with a manual toothbrush, the American Dental Association says. But oral health experts told NBC News that you'd need a nearly perfect brushing technique to do so. Instead, they typically recommend people choose electric (also called powered) toothbrushes because those products remove much of the potential for human error.

“I love an electric toothbrush because they do the work for you,” Dr. Samantha Rawdin, a board-certified prosthodontist at Gallery57Dental in New York City, told TODAY.com previously. “No need to rely on scrubbing to get the teeth clean.”

Powered toothbrushes are also a better option for people with dexterity issues, the ADA notes.

One feature you'll find in many electric toothbrushes is a timer. That's especially helpful so you know to brush for the full recommended two minutes, the experts told NBC News, rather than cutting it short.

Finally, dentists generally recommend choosing a toothbrush — electric or manual — with soft or extra-soft bristles “to prevent damage to your gums and tooth enamel,” Dr. Michael Wei, a dentist in New York City, told TODAY.com previously.

The ADA also recommends soft bristles to avoid the risk of irritating your gums.

When it come to choosing a particular shape for the toothbrush head (round or rectangular, for instance), the experts told NBC News that it comes down to personal preference and what fits more comfortably in your mouth.

How to Get Started

When you're in the market for a new toothbrush, keep these tips in mind.

You can start with the ADA's list of electric toothbrushes that have received the organization's Seal of Acceptance, indicating the manufacturer has provided evidence that the toothbrush can effectively remove plaque and reduce gingivitis. They also need to provide evidence that the toothbrush is safe and durable enough for daily use, the ADA explains.

And take a look at TODAY.com's list of expert-approved oral care products and, specifically, electric toothbrushes.