Walnut Creek Dentist: Are Power Toothbrushes Your Best Bet?
Electric Toothbrushes: Are They for You?
Power and sonic toothbrushes have come a long way.
Power Toothbrushes: Electric and Sonic
Electric toothbrushes were first introduced in the U.S. in 1960 by a company called Squibb, and marketed under the name Broxodent. Today, there are dozens of different brands available, with a myriad of features, including re-chargeable batteries, compact designs, and bristles built for optimal cleaning.
The two main types of power toothbrushes are electric and sonic -- the difference between the two really comes down to numbers.
Electric Toothbrushes: With 3,000 to 7,500 rotating motions a minute, electric toothbrushes are powered to replicate the motion of your hand -- doing the muscle work for you. The bristles on these toothbrushes either rotate or move back and forth to help remove plaque and reduce gingivitis.
Sonic Toothbrushes: Offering 30,000 to 40,000 strokes per minute, sonic toothbrushes rotate in a back and forth vibrating motion. The rapid motion is the sonic toothbrushes claim to fame, but ultimately, it also aims to remove plaque and keep teeth and gums healthy and clean.
For a little bit of perspective, the old-fashioned way of brushing your teeth rings in about 300 strokes per minute -- if you brush properly. So over the two-minute recommended brushing time, your teeth are hit with 600 strokes a far cry form the thousands you might get with the high-tech variety.
Benefits of Power Toothbrushes
Due to new technology, power toothbrushes have several advantages over hand-powered ones.
Several studies have indicated that sonic and electric toothbrushes have an edge on the kinds you hold in your hand in that they are better at reducing plaque and gingivitis, both in the short and long-term. For example, a 2003 Cochrane Oral Health Group study concluded that, compared to hand-powered toothbrushing, electric toothbrushes with rotational-oscillation action result in less plaque and fewer bouts of gingivitis. But the study also found that when used properly, manual and powered brushes can be equally effective.
Electric/sonic toothbrushes may be easier for people with dexterity problems, such as arthritis, to handle and control which means cleaner teeth and gums for you.
Sonic and electric toothbrushes could also help ensure people brush regularly by eliminating the work of hand-held brushing. Cost may be a major drawback to using a power toothbrush. Most models range from about $15 to more than $100; old-fashioned toothbrushes cost just a few dollars.
Practice the Best Toothbrushing Techniques:
No matter your toothbrush preference, good oral health is a must. Youll benefit from brushing a minimum of twice a day for approximately two minutes every time, every morning and at night before you go to bed to avoid food sitting on your teeth and gums for long periods of time.
Quality is as important as quantity when it comes to brushing. Follow these tips for good toothbrushing technique:
Angle the brush at about a 45 degree angle up onto the tooth and into gum line.
Use a soft-bristled brush, and use a gentle brushing motion.
Dont over scrub or use too much pressure.
Make sure you brush every tooth and cranny.
Regardless of using a power toothbrush or a manual one, the most important thing is to brush effectively. Doing so will help you to avoid periodontal disease, minimize gum and bone loss, and keep your mouth healthy and clean.
Floss Your Teeth and Do It Right:
Most people floss by placing the thread through the gaps in between their teeth. Although it may seem like its helping what you are doing is causing friction on your gums and teeth. Its best to talk to your dentist about how to floss properly, such as using only a small amount of floss between your fingers, using a controlled motion, and going slowly.
Another suggestion is to use a rubber tip to clean around the gums and in between teeth instead of flossing. If used with a proper technique, in combination with a power toothbrush. This technique will help to keep your mouth high on sparkle and low on plaque. Finally, experts recommend that you see your dentist every six months for regular check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist can help you maintain good oral health techniques at home, and keep your mouth healthy.
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by: Best Dentist Walnut Creek
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