Electric Toothbrush • Steinbicker Family Dentistry • Mebane

Come see a dentist in Mebane to better understand how to use an electric toothbrush. The Electro Massage Tooth Brush Company invented the first electric toothbrush in 1927. Since then, many developments in electric toothbrushes developed. Today, we have excellent options to help us clean our teeth better.

Cleaning your teeth well is an essential part of preventive dentistry.

Top reasons to get an electric toothbrush

There are many reasons to switch from a manual toothbrush to an electric one. Some dental patients are reluctant to make the switch. However, with a greater understanding of how the newer devices work, patients should consider an electric brush.

1. Electric toothbrushes clean your teeth better

An electric brush cleans your teeth better than a manual toothbrush. According to a study done by Cochrane, patients can reduce plaque buildup by 21% compared to a regular toothbrush. As a result, powered brushes minimize the incidence of gingivitis (i.e., inflammation of the gums).

2. Modern toothbrushes tell if you are brushing too hard

Newer models of toothbrushes have sensors that know if you are brushing too long or hard. Cleaning too hard causes recession (i.e., gums wear away at the gumline). Recession results in sensitive root exposure and sensitive teeth. With the advance of the electric toothbrush, patients know if they are putting the right amount of pressure on their teeth.

3. Brushing for the correct amount of time

The American Dental Association (i.e., ADA) recommends brushing your teeth for two minutes. Most toothbrushes powered by batteries indicate when to stop brushing. Cleaning for too long causes abrasion and can destroy tooth structure.

Some patients can use their Health Savings (i.e., HSA) account to help pay for an electric toothbrush.

Brushing for two minutes is especially crucial for patients with Invisalign and traditional brackets (i.e., orthodontics).

4. Electric toothbrushes are more comfortable to use

In general, powered toothbrushes are less challenging to use than manual ones. Patients can hold the toothbrush and let it do all of the work. Move the brush along the front, back and bottom of your teeth to get a thorough tooth cleaning. Patients can also use this type of toothbrush to clean their dental implants.

In conclusion

Patients with cleaner teeth have less plaque and healthier gums. Typically, patients with less plaque have fewer cavities or tooth decay.

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