Toothbrush Bristles

Toothbrush Bristle Hardness Examined.

Bustle (4/27, Sharkey) reports on the difference between the “hardness” of bristles on a toothbrush, writing, “failing to choose the right toothbrush could be inadvertently harming your teeth.” The article outlines the difference between “extra soft, soft, medium, and hard” bristles, noting that hard bristles “are not recommended at all” and are “more likely to wear away tooth enamel and damage gums.” Bustle says that soft bristles “are the optimal choice. … As long as you brush in the correct manner, you’ll produce the same – and potentially less damaging – results.”

Dental professionals can direct their patients to MouthHealthy.org, ADA’s consumer website, for additional information on toothbrush care. In addition, the ADA provides a list of toothbrushes with the ADA Seal of Acceptance.