You've probably seen an electric toothbrush at your dentist's office, or one might have been recommended for you to incorporate into your at-home teeth cleaning routine. The majority of people grew up accustomed to manual toothbrushes, so the electric version might come along with many questions. Here's some more information to keep in mind as you select the right one for you. 

Questions About Electric Toothbrushes, Answered

Why are they better than manual brushes? 

During your at-home teeth cleaning routine, it's common to brush too hard with a manual toothbrush, which can lead to gum recession and bleeding. It's also hard to get every part of a tooth when using the traditional option. Electric toothbrushes allow you to be gentle, since you're simply holding and shifting the handle around your mouth while the bristles rely on the battery for movement. These bristles are able to get to parts of a tooth a manual option cannot, and you're also prevented from brushing too vigorously. 

What options are there?

There are many different electric toothbrush brands, but there tends to be two options that each company offers. The first is a regular electric; the other is a sonic option. The former is slower and made to mimic traditional brushing by operating similarly to hand motions, but it's much faster than a manual brush, which makes it great for plaque removal. A sonic brush is even faster, making it even tougher on plaque and bacteria. 

What if I brush too hard?

Many people are nervous that they'll fall into old habits and press their electric toothbrush too severely against their teeth or gums. Luckily, most electric options have special sensors, so they'll shut off if you're putting too much pressure in order to safeguard you from injury or discomfort. 

What other benefits do these brushes offer?

Besides being able to remove more plaque and achieve better oral hygiene from your teeth cleaning routine, you can also give your hands and wrists a break, since an electric toothbrush replaces the need to manually those joints and muscles. This is a great option for those with arthritis or dexterity problems. 

If you're struggling to keep up with a dental hygiene routine at home, talk to your dentist about getting an electric toothbrush during your next professional teeth cleaning at Waterford Dental Health. This compassionate team can handle all your oral health needs, including sedation, with cutting-edge technology and a calm, helpful demeanor. Visit their website or call (860) 447-2235 to schedule a consultation.