In general, a toothbrush head should be small for easy access. It should have a long, wide handle for a firm grip. It should have soft, nylon bristles with rounded ends. Some brushes are too abrasive and can wear down teeth. Medium and hard bristles are discouraged.
Patients generally think they brush longer, but most spend less than a minute brushing.
To make sure you're doing a thorough job and not missing any areas, patients are advised to brush a full 3-4 minutes twice a day. Brushing removes plaque from your teeth. Using a fluoride toothpaste is important because the fluoride can make your teeth stronger. Children may need smaller brushes than those designed for adults. Toothbrushes should be replaced every three or four months.