a toothbrush whose tufts comprise three distinct groups of rows , with each row oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis of the head . the tufts of the first group are the shortest . the endmost tufts on each row of the second kind tilt laterally outwardly by about 12 degrees . the tufts of the third group are nearest the end of the head farthest from the handle and diverge from each other . in one embodiment , each tuft of the third kind tilts laterally at an angle of about 30 degrees and forwardly at about 14 degrees . in a first embodiment , each row of the first group comprises a single , wide tuft . in a second embodiment , each row of the first group has a plurality of laterally spaced round tufts . in a third embodiment , each row of the first group comprises a plurality of laterally spaced quadrangular tufts . all of the tufts may also be considered as defining four functional groups of tufts , with each of these four groups performing a specific function during brushing . the arrangement and orientation of the tufts yields a uniform cleaning action substantially independent of brushing direction or technique .