If you really want to avoid frequent visits to your dentist, you must practice good oral hygiene. This includes twice daily brushing, flossing, using a fluoridated toothpaste and regular dental visits about every six months for cleaning and a checkup. But what kind of toothbrush is best—a manual toothbrush or one of those fancy electric ones? Does it matter?
Dentists surveyed on the subject discovered most patients, although they were making attempts at good oral care, were not brushing properly, either because their technique was wrong or they did not brush long enough. So the first rule in brushing well is to do it correctly. If you’re not sure how to do it, the
hygienist at your dentist’s office will be happy to show you.
Most people still use a manual toothbrush, even though power toothbrushes have been available since the 1960s and have been shown to be more effective in plaque removal and reducing gingivitis. The cost of a power toothbrush and being unsure about which brand to buy are two of the reasons many people stick with a manual toothbrush. However, despite many advances in manual toothbrush design, the average manual toothbrush removes only about 50% or less of plaque. Dentists agree that, for those who cannot afford a power toothbrush, the battery-powered versions provide a significant improvement over manual toothbrushes and cost less than $6.00. Some studies show the battery-powered toothbrushes are as effective in removing plaque as the more expensive electric versions. Better yet, children who use power or battery-operated toothbrushes brushed longer and better, due in part to ease of use for their smaller fingers and hands, the smaller brush head size which helps children reach more inaccessible parts of the mouth, and the sheer fun of brushing with a toothbrush that does the work for you.
In some ways, it can be said that, since the main goal of brushing is to maintain
good oral health, it is more important to be sure to brush regularly than to worry about what type of toothbrush you’re using. But why not get the very best results for your efforts? If you’re not used to using a power toothbrush, try the battery-operated version first, then take your time comparing prices, styles, designs and features before you purchase an electric toothbrush.
And be sure to
schedule a checkup with Dr. Michael Iott. The hygienists are happy to talk to you about proper brushing and flossing techniques, and
Dr. Iott’s entire staff is there to support you in your quest for excellent oral health. Contact the office today!
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