electronic toothbrush

3 Key Benefits of an Electronic Toothbrush

Team General Dentistry

Are you brushing with an electronic toothbrush? If not, you could be missing out on some significant benefits. More and more dentists are recommending electric toothbrushes for adults and especially children. To keep your teeth clean between visits to the dentist for professional cleanings, an electric toothbrush is your best option. Here are 3 key benefits of using an electronic toothbrush. 


Removes more plaque and tartar from teeth.


An electric toothbrush is designed with moving and rotating bristles that are capable of removing more food, tartar, and plaque from your teeth than a manual toothbrush. Rather than scrubbing a manual toothbrush back and forth over your teeth, an electric toothbrush makes its own scrubbing motion while you simply hold it against your teeth and move it around your mouth. The faster, automatic motion of the electric toothbrush gives it more power to clean your teeth.


Reduces human error.


When you brush your teeth with a manual toothbrush it is quite common to miss spots or apply varying amounts of pressure to different parts of your mouth. You may brush better on the same side of your mouth as your dominant hand. But an electric toothbrush applies an even pressure across all teeth for a more thorough clean. It also promotes longer brushing times because there is less effort required, which is especially helpful for kids. An electric toothbrush can also be beneficial for youth and adults with braces to help remove food from between brackets and wires.


Promotes healthier gums.


Another great benefit of an electronic toothbrush is the way it can gently scrub along the gumline to prevent gum disease and gingivitis. The vibrations can also help to loosen up tartar and plaque that builds up under the gum line before it hardens and turns to calculus, which is more difficult to remove. An electric toothbrush also does a better job of getting between teeth where bacteria that cause gum disease tends to gather.


What Type of Electronic Toothbrush Should I Buy?


Now that you’re aware of the benefits, you may be ready to buy an electric toothbrush. There are a few different types and brands available. Philips Sonicare and Oral B are probably the most widely known brands on the market. But there are many different models with different features. When choosing an electronic toothbrush, here’s what to look for:


Easy operation.


Look for an electric toothbrush that is easy to use. You should be able to pick it up and brush anytime that it’s convenient for you. Charging should be effortless and controls should be simple to understand.


Convenient features.


Some electric toothbrushes have special features, such as a built-in timer so you know how long to brush and other helpful accessories like charging stations and travel cases.


Longevity.


A quality electric toothbrush should be designed for long term use, with features such as replaceable brush heads and water pick jets. Avoid low-cost brushes that are designed for single use until the battery runs out.


Good reviews.


Read reviews online of any toothbrush you are considering before purchasing. Information from consumers who have used the product is invaluable.


An Electric Toothbrush Does Not Replace Professional Dental Cleanings


It is important to note that while an electric toothbrush gives you a more thorough clean than a manual toothbrush, it should not replace professional dental cleanings by a dentist. It is still recommended that you visit Carmel Dental Associates every 6 months for an oral examination and cleaning. Call (845) 225-2224 today to schedule a visit or request an appointment.