Commercials would certainly have you believe electric toothbrushes are better. But then again, commercials would also have you believe that women find male "body sprays" completely irresistible. Trust us -- not true.
But back to oral hygiene. This 2004 article from the BBC states that "electric toothbrushes may be better at removing plaque and preventing gum disease than manual brushes." According to a British study involving 1,786 people, "people who used an electric toothbrush for one month reduced their plaque levels by 11% compared with those who used manual brushes."
However, according to the Boston Globe, not all electric toothbrushes are created equal. Consumers should look for toothbrushes with "rotation-oscillation action." This type of brushing helps get rid of plaque more effectively.
Still, it's worth noting that there's no magical electric toothbrush out there. According to medical physiologist Cliff Whall, if a person uses a manual toothbrush correctly, it can be just as effective as an electric one. Unfortunately, few people know how to use manual toothbrushes correctly. Kind of sad, really.
There are lot of electric toothbrushes to choose from, and some can be quite pricey. Ask your dentist for recommendations if you're thinking of switching.
Types
- Evaluate the different types of toothbrushes. Some use a rapid-action movement on the brush head to not only clean the surface but also use the toothpaste's foam to move rapidly and do additional surface cleaning. Others have heads that move with a rotational oscillation also proven to remove plaque more effectively.
Significance
- Judge the difference at the dentist's office. When you go in for a cleaning after using an electric toothbrush, you'll most likely get a comment on the difference from the hygienist. Studies with all types of toothbrushes show the action of electric toothbrushes superior to that of traditional toothbrushes. Other studies show that freeing teeth from more plaque reduces the amount of gum loss and creates a healthier mouth environment.
Features
- Select a toothbrush with a timer. Most people don't brush their teeth as long as dentists recommend. A timer starts when you turn on the toothbrush and ends after two minutes, the proper amount of time to brush. Some electric toothbrushes have quadrant timers that divide the time into 30-second intervals so you can focus the same time on each section of your mouth. Some have varying power settings with fast-action power for those most acclimated to an electric toothbrush and lower settings for beginners. Some manufacturers offer a warranty on the toothbrush.
Effects
- Don't brush your teeth too hard. Many dentists recommend an electric toothbrush for those who brush their teeth too hard. This type of brushing wears away enamel and destroys the gum line. An electric toothbrush has a soft bristle, and studies find that it reduces the hard brushing that often accompanies the standard toothbrush.
Benefits
- Healthy gums and teeth are the benefit, as are less frequent dental cleanings. Often, the switch to an electric toothbrush reduces the necessary mid-year cleanings when you follow the manufacturer's guidelines.
Warning
- When you first use the electric toothbrush, the tingling may be uncomfortable until your mouth adjusts to the tickle of the toothbrush. This causes most people to stop use, but if you persevere you'll find that it takes about a week before the discomfort diminishes.
