There are better ways to shop for toothbrushes than color, price or most convincing marketing buzzword on the packaging. We recommend taking advice from a dental insurer, figuring that those in that line of work would rather take your premiums while subsidizing as few root canals and cavity fillings as possible.

Here’s what Delta Dental has to say on the finer points brush buying:

* Go soft. Make sure the bristles are soft. Harder bristles are rough on your gums. Older brushes tend to stiffen as old toothpaste gums them up, tipping you off that it’s time for a change.

* Electric brushes do the work for you. While not necessary to brush your teeth properly, electric models minimize the amount of effort you’ll have to put into the act. These are almost always more expensive than non-electric brushes, but you may find them worth the extra cost.

* Smaller heads tend to work better. It can be tougher to reach into the back corners of your mouth with a brush that’s too large. Aim for a smaller head for more precision.

How to select a toothbrush [Delta Dental]

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