Home Tag: "oral hygiene"

Tag: oral hygiene

Electrical or Manual toothbrush, which is best?
9May

This has been an ongoing debate for years.  However, after some major studies, it has been found that an electric toothbrush does outperform a manual toothbrush in just about every case.  This is because they can cover more ground easily.  The oscillation and vibration of an electric toothbrush will get back plaque better than a manual one.  It will also help loosen stuck-on food.  

While the electric toothbrush is superior to the manual toothbrush, it is also more expensive.  Some can be very expensive.  Which means some people cannot afford them.  Not to worry, using a manual toothbrush is still better than using your finger or a cloth.  Brushing your teeth is vital to your oral health as well as your overall health.  Oral bacteria can make you very sick.  If you find getting an electric toothbrush out of your financial reach, no worries.  

When you start to shop for an electric toothbrush you will probably notice there are toothbrushes that do all sorts of things.  Some come with timers and pressure sensors.  Some oscillate and some vibrate while others do both.  This can be very confusing and frustrating depending on which would be best for you.  We would recommend asking Dentist Boronia what they think.  After all, they know your teeth well. Some of us have deep pits in our teeth naturally and will need a toothbrush that is good for that.  While others of us might have a gingivitis issue or infection in our gums that need a better cleaning around the gum area. 

These different oral problems will be the driving force on which electric toothbrush would be best for you.  Also, what features would you like to see on your toothbrush, there are lots, so go prepared when shopping for an electric toothbrush.

Some of these electric toothbrush options include:

  • Multiple brush heads so you can determine what bristles you like best.  Some come with soft and some are more firm, for example.
  • Tracking capabilities to ensure that you are covering your entire mouth.
  • Bluetooth tracking so you can use an app to study your brushing habits and show your dentist as well.
  • Sonic, Oscillating/pulsating or Oscillation, and rotation are some of the various styles of electric toothbrushes.
  • Digital reminders that it is time for a replacement.
  • Timers built-in so that you can time how long you have brushed overall or for each quadrant.  
  • Pressure sensors to ensure you are not brushing too hard and damaging the enamel.
  • Various brushing modes are included.  

Many manufacturers make various styles and types of electric toothbrushes.  Your budget should also be taken into account.  Sure you have the initial purchase of the electric toothbrush, but you also have to remember that you will need to replace the head from time to time.  Check the cost of head replacement so that you aren’t in sticker shock later on.  

Proper oral hygiene will ensure that you will have a beautiful smile for years to come.  

FAQ

Is it bad to use an electric toothbrush every day?

Some people might think that it is bad to use an electric toothbrush every day as it will harm your enamel.  However, that is certainly not the case.  It has been proven that electric toothbrushes are safe for everyday use.

Should I leave my electric toothbrush on the charger all the time?

You don’t want to ruin the battery, so no, do not leave it on the charger the entire time.  Instead, when you first get it, charge it for about 16 hours. Then, use it as you would normally until it needs to go back on the charger again. This will allow your batteries to perform better and last far longer.

What is the life expectancy of an electric toothbrush?

You should plan to have your electric toothbrush last 3-5 years.  It will really depend on the batteries.  If you can change the batteries, then you might get a longer life span. However, most have on board and built in batteries that you will recharge over and over again.

How often should I replace my toothbrush?
9May

While we typically all get a new toothbrush from the dentist Boronia on our 6-month cleaning, is that when you are supposed to change out your toothbrush?  We thought it was time to let everyone know how often and why you would change out your toothbrush.

Your toothbrush is used to get plaque and food out and around your teeth.  If you think about it, it can get kind of gross.  If your toothbrush ends up really gross, change it then, of course, these are simply guides.  Some people will want to change more often, which is fine.  The point is that you actually change out the toothbrush and don’t use the same one for a year or years in some cases.  

How often will also depend on how often you brush your teeth.  While some people only brush their teeth once or twice a day, others will brush after each and every meal. If you are a person that brushes several times a day, your toothbrush will wear out more quickly.  You will have to change out your toothbrush every 12-16 weeks, in this case.  The bristles will eventually start to fray and when that happens the fibers aren’t strong enough to clean your teeth properly. 

Follow your electric toothbrush’s recommendations

If you use an electric toothbrush, you should follow the instructions of that particular manufacturer.  Of course, you will need to use the guide of how often and a little common sense.  Usually, though, the electric toothbrushes will have color on their bristles.  When the color is worn off, it is time for a new head. This will wear off more quickly for those that are using their toothbrush more.  

Electric toothbrush heads can be a little expensive.  However, if you try to stretch it you are not doing your teeth any favors. They are made to vibrate and rotate rapidly, which means that they will most likely wear rather quickly.  Electric toothbrushes can certainly be an effective tool, however, when used properly.  

While some people think they should get rid of their toothbrushes after being sick, this simply isn’t true.  Yes, your toothbrush will house germs.  However, they are germs that your body has built up antibodies to.  This means that you will not reinfect yourself should you use it.  However, if you house your toothbrush with your families, you could infect them.  Try to keep your toothbrushes from touching.  

How to clean your toothbrush of germs.

Also, you can rinse your toothbrush with some mouthwash to clean it well, then run it underwater.  The alcohol in the mouthwash will disinfect the toothbrush, should you feel it necessary.  

Make sure the bristles on your toothbrush remain stiff and springy.  As you use it the bristles will wear down and become softer overtime.  This is a good sign that it is time to invest in a new toothbrush.  Also, check between the bristles.  Over time gunk can build up at the base of the bristle.  This gunk can be a breeding ground for bacteria. If you have gunk, it is time for a new toothbrush ASAP.  

We do recommend that you purchase a new toothbrush and always have one on hand.  After all, you never know when you might notice that it’s time for a replacement.  It is better to be prepared than not. 

FAQ

How often should I brush my teeth?

While twice a day is the best, we want to see you brush at least once a day. If you only do it once a day, try to do it before bedtime.  Otherwise, the morning and night are the best time. While some people like to brush after each meal, this isn’t necessary.

What toothbrush should I use?

A little overwhelmed in the toothbrush aisle?  We understand, there are so many.  But, really it comes down to personal preference.  Just pick one that you like the feel of and don’t be shy to try something different.

How should I store my toothbrush?

In a nice clean and dry area where it can dry out and not harbor bacteria growth.

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