A guide to choosing the right toothbrush for you
As experts in dentistry, at Paramount Dental Sydney we’re often asked about toothbrushes, and if electric toothbrushes do a better job than standard manual toothbrushes. This isn’t a simple yes or no answer so we’ll give you the lowdown to ensure you can make an informed decision before potentially spending hundreds of dollars.
Firstly, regardless of the type of toothbrush you choose to use, mastering the correct technique for brushing is necessary. Going in hard and fast doesn’t necessarily mean you’re doing a good job. In fact, it could be doing damage to your gums, causing gum recession and removing the outer layer of the teeth, enamel, which is needed to protect the foundation of your teeth.
Regardless of which toothbrush you choose, the following tips are super important for oral hygiene:
Concentrate on the gum line – that’s where plaque likes to live.
Move your toothbrush in circular motions.
Move your toothbrush around your mouth systematically, each time, so you don’t miss parts.
Always start in the same part of your mouth and work your way around.
Always choose a soft bristle brush so you don’t damage your gums.
In the morning, try and wait until you’ve eaten brekky before brushing and wait until you’re going to bed at night.
Replace your toothbrush every three months.
Floss, floss, floss.
Clean your tongue – it’s a hotbed for bacteria which can cause bad breath.
This brings us to the perks for electric toothbrushes…
The technology has come a long way!
If you struggle with technique when it comes to brushing your teeth, often an electric toothbrush does part of the job for you through vibrations that automatically move in a circular motion. They can also signal when you are applying to much pressure – your gums will thank you!
Timing
Unless you’re really disciplined, ensuring that you’re brushing for the full recommended 2 minutes can be tricky. Many electric toothbrushes have inbuilt timers that will alert you when you’re done – some will even break it down per section of your mouth!
Good for kids
For those of you with children, some electric toothbrushes are colourful and even play music which can entice your kids to brush their teeth, setting them up for a lifetime of good oral health.
No more waste
A common error when brushing is applying too much toothpaste when you really don’t need it. Electric toothbrushes have a smaller head so you can resist the urge to pile on the toothpaste!
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and a manual toothbrush can do the job however, you must be vigilant about technique. If choosing to go down the electric route, our team are happy to discuss the best options for you as some electric toothbrushes are far superior to the cheap supermarket versions.
Happy brushing!
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