Are you in the dark about the benefits of using an electric toothbrush compared to a manual one?
Gulshan Dhanoya, one of our associate dentists at our Jesmond clinic, shares her top five reasons why an electric toothbrush should be on your Christmas list this year.
(Thanks to Gulshan’s patient Leanna for modelling the toothbrushes in this photo!)
- Better plaque removal
“Whenever my patients ask me which kind of toothbrush gives a better clean, I always recommend electric ones. A recent study (from the Journal of Clinical Periodontology) has found that electric toothbrushes really do clean teeth and gums much better than manual toothbrushes do.
“This research took 11 years to complete and is the longest study of its kind into the effectiveness of electric versus manual brushing. Scientists found that electric toothbrushes resulted in 22% less gum recession and 18% less tooth decay over the 11-year period.
“They also found that people who use an electric toothbrush keep their teeth for longer, compared with those who use a manual toothbrush.”
- Easier to use
“An electric toothbrush actually does the hard work for you. With a manual toothbrush, you need a keep up a consistently good brushing technique to clean each surface of the tooth effectively. An electric toothbrush automatically carries out the brushing action, so all you have to do is gently guide the toothbrush across your teeth. Hold the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to make sure the bristles are touching the tooth and the gum line.”
- Timers
“Electric toothbrushes have a whole range of features to help you brush correctly. They can connect to specially designed apps on your phone, which then time you as you brush your teeth – making sure you don’t cheat on the two-minute rule!”
- Changeable heads
“Electric toothbrushes come with a range of changeable heads, so if you prefer a compact, full size or angled brush head, you’ll be able to find the right product for you – especially if your dentist has recommended a particular style, such as softer bristles.”
- Pressure sensors
“If you scrub or brush too hard, you can increase the risk of gum recession, and even wear away the enamel of your teeth, increasing sensitivity.
“Electric toothbrushes can come with a pressure sensor, which uses a warning light to alert you when you are brushing too hard. It’s a great feature to help protect your teeth and gums.
“Remember – whichever toothbrush you choose, the most important thing is to keep up a good oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day, with a fluoride toothpaste, and floss or use interdental brushes once a day.”
To make an appointment for a dental health assessment with Gulshan at Honour Health, click the ‘book now’ at the top of this page and choose our Jesmond practice. You can also call 0191 281 3913 or email jesmond@honourhealth.co.uk