“Should I use an electric toothbrush to improve my oral hygiene?”
Many of our patients ask us this question when they come in for a routine cleaning. Our patients want to know if there are actual health benefits to using an electric brush. The simple answer to these questions is that, yes, you should use an electric brush and, yes, there are health benefits.
The biggest reason why people need to use an electric brush is due to poor hygiene technique and habits. If people always brushed twice per day for two minutes at a time and used floss, it would not be necessary to use an electric brush. However, chances are, you do not use proper habits and technique so an electric brush can help to improve your oral health.
It is important to understand that while an electric brush can help you, it should not replace good habits and technique. Even when using an electric brush, you should still brush twice per day for two minutes at a time and use dental floss.
While everyone can benefit from using an electric toothbrush, the following three groups of people can especially benefit from an electric brush.
Group 1.) Children
Most parents you talk to will admit that their child probably does not use proper hygiene habits. By utilizing an electric toothbrush for your child, it will entertain them and they will brush for longer than they do with a manual brush. In addition to this, an electric brush will help to make up for poor brushing technique and help to remove plaque.
Group 2.) People with specific health issues
If you have arthritis, coordination issues, or gum disease, we highly recommend using an electric brush to keep your teeth and mouth healthier.
Group 3.) People with braces
As you probably know, braces add a lot of “stuff” into your mouth. The brackets and wires offer bacteria and germs excellent places to gather and hide in your mouth. An electric toothbrush will help to eliminate this build up.
Are you concerned about your oral hygiene and health?
Using an electric toothbrush will improve oral hygiene, but remember, nothing can replace visiting your dentist for routine cleanings. If you are in Olney, MD, we welcome you to contact us today to schedule an appointment.