07 Dec Electronic Toothbrush: A great weapon against plaque formation
Plaque—the sticky bacteria-laden film that can accumulate in your mouth—can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, in addition to other oral health issues. Daily brushing (in the morning and again at night) and flossing helps to keep plaque in check, so in the battle against plaque, your toothbrush is one of your most important weapons. The type of toothbrush you use can truly make a difference. If you tend to have a significant amount of plaque buildup between visits to our dentist, you may want to consider switching to an electronic toothbrush.
Some studies have shown that electronic toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque than a manual toothbrush is. Because the brush itself is doing so much of the work, patients need to apply less pressure in order to clear away the plaque.
Another advantage of electronic toothbrushes is that some of them come equipped with an internal timer so that the brush shuts off after two minutes, and you can be reassured that you spent enough time on brushing.
Keep in mind, though, that an electronic toothbrush is by no means a cure-all for your oral health. You still must be sure to use proper technique. If you have any questions about this aspect of your home oral hygiene regimen, ask our dentist for pointers.
Additionally, an electronic toothbrush can only do an effective job when accompanied by daily flossing. Some patients also may benefit from an anti-bacterial mouthwash as another plaque-fighting technique.
There are many models of electronic toothbrushes, ranging from battery operated inexpensive ones to pricier rechargeable brushes, which have more advanced technology and typically more features. You don’t necessarily have to break the bank to get an effective electronic brush, though. Talk to your dentist for guidance in selecting the brush that will best meet your needs.
To keep your smile in the best condition possible, consider using an electronic toothbrush to minimize plaque. Ask a member of our knowledgeable team at the office of Dr. Philip Kozlow for more details on this toothbrush option and its benefits.