For many years, people have relied on manual toothbrushes when caring for their oral health. While they effectively clean the teeth, electronic options offer a few additional perks that will make your next dentist visit easier. If you're considering switching to this device, here's a guide to help you decide if it's right for you.

Why Use an Electric Toothbrush?

1. More Effective at Removing Oral Plaque

An electric toothbrush typically features a head that vibrates and oscillates as it works to eliminate plaque from the teeth. These micromovements increase the power and efficacy of brushing, decreasing the likelihood of tooth decay and gum disease. It provides superior protection against common oral issues compared to a manual option, offering a 21% decrease in plaque after three months of use. 

2. Better for Gums 

Receding gums are common dental problems, affecting around 64.7 million adults over 30. These issues develop due to many causes, including aggressive brushing. An electric toothbrush protects the soft tissues from unnecessary wear by preventing the user from needing to push down on the tooth surfaces.

Some electronic devices even have pressure sensors that let you know if you are brushing too hard. As a bonus, these devices can also stimulate blood flow and promote healthy gum tissue growth. 

3. Useful Built-In Timer

Dentists agree that brushing your teeth for two minutes provides the most effective cleaning. However, when practicing this dental care step, it's hard to recognize how much time has passed. Most electronic toothbrushes contain timers to let you know when the two minutes are up, doing the work for you. Some even break it down by quadrants. This feature allows you to move on to the next area of the mouth, ensuring all teeth get equal care.

Achieve a healthy, bright smile with the help of Stephen R. Ho, DDS, in Honolulu, HI. With 30 years of experience, you can rely on this dentist to provide the highest quality care and ultimate comfort. Dr. Ho offers various general and cosmetic dentistry services using cutting-edge technology to deliver your desired results, from gum disease treatment to dental implants. Take a virtual tour of the Waikiki office by visiting their website, and call (808) 949-4288 to schedule an appointment.