When comparing manual tooth brushing to using an electric toothbrush, they can both be

effective at removing soft plaque above the gum tissue, if used correctly. However, as

our lives get busier, people often don’t pay enough attention to how they are brushing

their teeth, how hard or for how long. Using an electric toothbrush could be helpful to

those who don’t brush properly with a manual brush, those with limited dexterity, or

those who have a history with gum disease.

Why is it so important to remove plaque? The bacteria in plaque is responsible for

many problems that occur in the mouth. The bacteria in plaque can cause acid as

they metabolize sugar and carbohydrates that you eat, which then eats away at your

enamel causing weakening of the enamel and eventually cavities. The bacteria in

your oral cavity can attack your gums causing gingivitis and periodontitis, two

stages of gum disease. In the latter, permanent damage and bone loss can occur.

Plaque also builds up on your teeth overtime turning into hard deposits, known as

tarter or calculus. When these hard deposits are formed, you can no longer remove

them with brushing and flossing and will need professional intervention. Removing

plaque efficiently on a daily basis means you will have a quicker and more pleasant

dental cleaning.

Electric toothbrushes range in size, shape and even brushing patterns but most brands

have a few things in common. They move in a pattern to clean teeth so that all the user

has to do is hold it on their teeth and move it slowly across the arch. Most have a twominute

timer to keep the user accountable for brushing the amount of time recommended

by the American Dental Association. Lastly, some brands like Sonicare and Oral B have

added a pressure sensor to let you know if you are brushing too hard, as many people do.

All of these features have made it easier for someone to brush their teeth effectively with

less effort. Because the electric toothbrush runs the full recommended two minutes,

monitors pressure used, and in many cases uses ultrasonic technology, they are more

effective at removing plaque than a manual toothbrush.

Electric toothbrushes can also be beneficial for those with limited dexterity such as the

elderly or even younger kids who haven’t mastered the right technique. People with

tremors or conditions like arthritis can have a lot of trouble holding and manipulating a

manual toothbrush. Kids often do not understand the mechanics of tooth brushing and

plaque removal. For both of these populations, the electric toothbrush can help maintain

their oral health making it much easier to brush their teeth.

Lastly, brushing and gently massaging the gum tissue can improve overall gum health.

Gum tissue stimulation increases the oxygen saturation in the tissue and helps the tissue

to heal more efficiently. Some powered toothbrushes have a specific gum care setting. It

adds 1 minute to the end of the standard 2-minute brush time and reduces the power of

the toothbrush so that you can safely stimulate and massage the gum tissue. This is a

great feature for people who want to prevent gum disease or those trying to improve their

gum health.

Plaque removal is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Electric toothbrushes

have made it much easier to accomplish this task with more efficiency and less effort.

Ask your dental professional which electric toothbrush would be best for you. When

used correctly, an electric toothbrush can make a great addition to any oral health routine

to help keep you healthy and looking your best.

If you'd like information about becoming a preferred partner with Stroll Forrestridge please reach out to Telese Gray at telese.gray@n2co.com.