Current Dentistry
Electric Toothbrush; can you believe the hype?
You have just completed your 6 month visit to the dentist. The hygienist tells you all is well. She wants you to floss the front teeth better, because you have that hard stuff between your teeth. She then proceeds to recommend an electric toothbrush. SHe shows you how to use the floss better. You are confused, all the marketing for toothbrushes is driving you crazy. Do I need an electric toothbrush or not?
Its a Matter of opinion!
The dental field is clearly divided on this topic. Many dentist read articles and convince themselves that what they read is the right way to do things. Other Dentists will read the articles, listen to the sales representatives and then try the toothbrush themselves. After all these trials and information gathering they make up their mind. The advertisements tell you how great they clean, that they have timers and if you put to much pressure on the brush itself, it will turn off.
So, what do I DO?
As a Dentist my recommendation for oral hygiene is as follows:
- Floss as often as you can. Obviously, if you floss after every meal it will lead to better hygiene.
- Brush at least two times a day, no more than three.
- Toothbrushes and toothpaste are abrasive and the more you brush the more damage you can do.
- Do not brush for prolonged periods of time, 30 seconds to one minute should be enough.
- Use oral mouth washes that do not contain alcohol, as these tend to dry out the tissues in the mouth.
- Get a professional cleaning at least twice a year, depending on your dentist recommendation.
The decision of using a regular toothbrush or a manual toothbrush should be easy. These toothbrushes do what they say they are going to do. The bottom line is that they are more aggressive than a manual toothbrush. It is my opinion to use the electric toothbrush once or twice a MONTH!!! If you use it everyday you will get root exposure, leading to an increase in sensitivity to cold.
Using an electric toothbrush or a manual toothbrush should not be the concern. The objective of every patient should be to make sure they brush and floss their teeth daily. In order to maximize their oral health, they should get a professional cleaning by the dental office at least twice a year. It takes hard work from both the patient and the dentiat to maintain their dental health!!!
Published by Dr. David Silber, DMD
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