There has long been a debate about whether electronic toothbrushes are more effective than manual brushes. Well, most dentists agree that if used correctly, electronic toothbrushes are more beneficial to oral health than manual brushes. There are a number of different electronic toothbrushes out there to choose from, so it’s important to do your research before going out and buying one. Make sure you purchase an electronic toothbrush that is going to meet your oral health care needs.
If you’re still on the fence about buying an electronic toothbrush, here are a few reasons you should think about going electric:
Thorough Teeth Cleaning
Electronic toothbrushes do a better job overall of cleaning your teeth. Their design helps to remove plaque and reach hard-to-clean areas helping to prevent oral health problems like gingivitis and cavities. In a study done by the American Dental Association, more than 80 percent of people said their oral health improved after switching from a manual toothbrush to an electronic one.
They Keep You From Brushing Too Hard
Often, people think that the harder they brush, the better they are cleaning their teeth. The truth is, brushing too hard can do more harm than good to your oral health. Brushing too hard can damage your gums, causing gum recession. It can also remove enamel from the tooth surface. The good thing about brushing with an electronic toothbrush is they do most of the work. You are less likely to brush your teeth vigorously because with an electronic toothbrush, you simply hold the toothbrush while the bristles move on their own. Some models even have sensors that will turn the brush off if you are brushing too hard.
Easier For People With Dexterity Issues
People with issues such as arthritis or limited mobility in their hands have an easier time brushing their teeth with an electronic toothbrush. They have bigger handles, making it easier to grip and the bristles do the majority of the cleaning for you.
Help You Brush The Proper Amount Of Time
Part of the reason people suffer with oral health issues is because they aren’t brushing for the proper amount of time. You’re supposed to brush your teeth for two minutes, which should allow you to brush for 30 seconds in each of your mouth’s four quadrants. The average brushing time for the majority of Americans is between 31 to 65 seconds. Another benefit of electronic toothbrushes is that most of them come with a timer that beeps after two minutes, alerting you when you’ve brushed your teeth for the proper amount of time.
More Eco Friendly
There are some that say electronic toothbrushes are more environmentally friendly than manual toothbrushes. According to experts at Green Your, it takes between 14 to 42 toothbrush replacement heads to equal the amount of plastic in one manual toothbrush. When you’re done using a manual toothbrush, you throw out the whole thing, whereas with an electric one, you only replace the toothbrush head.
The benefits of an electronic toothbrush definitely outweigh those of a manual brush, however, the only way to embrace these benefits is to make sure you practice the proper technique.
Trisha Banks is a blogger for Lakeway Center for Cosmetic & Family Dentistry in Lakeway, Texas. Trisha wants to switch to an electronic toothbrush but wants to do her research first.
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