There is a growing body of evidence that an electronic toothbrush is one of the best tools at your disposal for preventing a variety of oral health problems. So what specific benefits does an electric toothbrush offer?
Electric toothbrushes offer excellent plaque removal capabilities
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that develops on the teeth of all children and adults. Some degree of plaque is to be expected in everyone, as it begins forming within hours of eating. However, to prevent cavities, bad breath and gum disease, you must keep plaque under control with regular brushing, flossing, and dental exams and cleanings.
In addition to making your teeth look dull, yellow, or dingy, plaque can be responsible for causing bad breath. Plaque also leads to the production of acids in the mouth that cause decay (cavities). Finally, plaque can lead to gum disease (gingivitis) and bone loss (periodontitis).
Given what we know about the risks plaque poses, it should be a priority to fight plaque between dental visits. An electronic toothbrush helps to remove plaque better than manual toothbrushes, as the constantly rotating or vibrating head helps to reach areas of the teeth that can be skipped during manual brushing. Moreover, an electronic toothbrush may result in nearly 50,000 unique movements per minute, compared to a manual toothbrush, which tops out at 600-800 movements per minute.
Electronic toothbrushes encourage longer and more thorough tooth brushing
Many electronic toothbrushes have built-in timers, which can be extremely helpful in your efforts to prevent disease and decay. The ADA recommends that you brush your teeth for a full two minutes at least twice a day. If you use an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer, you won’t cut your brushing habits short.
In addition, it is common for people to brush one side of their mouth better than they brush the other side. Right-handed people often brush their teeth on the left side longer, while left-handed individuals tend to brush the right side of the teeth longer. By using an electronic toothbrush with a timer, you can split your time between different sides of your mouth, or different quadrants of your mouth more evenly.
Electronic toothbrushes are easy for children and adults with pain or mobility concerns
Another primary benefit of electronic toothbrushes is that they are easier for children to use. In fact, for children, electronic toothbrushing is often fun, making brushing their teeth a daily habit they enjoy. Electronic toothbrushes also make sure that children who haven’t yet developed great coordination, can still clean their teeth thoroughly. The use of an electric toothbrush coupled with regular dental exams and cleanings can lay a wonderful foundation for excellent oral health in the future.
Likewise, adults with mobility issues, chronic pain or various degenerative conditions, will also likely find electronic toothbrushes easier to use. People with carpal tunnel syndrome, limited range of motion and arthritis in the hands or shoulders, will get relief from the constant up and down movement required with a manual toothbrush.
Additional benefits of electronic toothbrushes
Depending upon the type of electronic toothbrush you choose, it may also have helpful benefits like pressure sensors, to ensure you’re not brushing too hard. Some models may have various modes designed for different objectives, such as tongue cleaning, gum massage stimulation, and/or a sensitive teeth mode.
Learn more about preventative dental care for children and adults in NYC
Midtown Dental Care Associates provides complete pediatric and family dentistry. Our dentists will be happy to recommend an electronic toothbrush to best suit your needs or the needs of your child. To schedule a preventative cleaning and exam, or to receive treatment for a sensitive tooth, contact us today by calling 212.685.4730 . We’re conveniently located between Grand Central Terminal and the New York Public Library (Bryant Park) on 41st Street.