Are Electric Toothbrushes Really Better?
Do you want to keep your pearly whites sparkling and clean? If you haven’t made the switch to an electric toothbrush, then now’s the time! Here’s why:
Electric toothbrushes have been around since the 1960s, but have recently grown in popularity. Because 90% of people don’t brush properly, electric toothbrushes are the better option. If you brush your teeth with the traditional manual toothbrush, you only make about 300 strokes per minute. You also probably don’t brush for a full 2 minutes. Bristles on most manual brushes simply can’t reach and remove plaque in between teeth and in hard to reach places. Vigorous brushing can do more harm than good, sometimes even removing the enamel, a protective layer on your teeth, which can lead to sensitivity and increase your risk for tooth decay.1
That’s where electric toothbrushes come in! Electric brushes make 3,000 to 7,500 strokes per minute. Sonic brushes are even better because they make 30,000 to 40,000 strokes per minute. Many of these battery powered options have a timer to ensure that you brush your teeth for the recommended 2 minutes. It also takes most of the work out of your hands! Electric toothbrushes are especially great for children and people with arthritis.1
Although the price tag is more than a traditional toothbrush, an electric one saves you money in the long run. Periodontal, or gum disease, is common in many adults. The mouth is full of bacteria that builds up on the teeth as plaque. Over time, plaque forms into tartar that only a visit to the dentist can remove. Built up plaque and tartar can be harmful to your teeth and gums, causing gingivitis and periodontitis.2 Poor oral health can mean expensive dental procedures such as cavity fillings, root canals, and dentures.
The choice between a manual, electric, or sonic toothbrush all depends on your oral cleaning habits and personal health. Some people are more prone to gum disease while others are careful to floss and visit the dentist regularly. Whether it’s the original electric or newly popular sonic, battery powered toothbrushes certainly are a superior option for cleaner, healthier, and whiter teeth.
Do you have a passion for good dental care? Charter College can get you ready for a career in dental assisting. In as little as 10 months, you could earn your Certificate in Dental Assisting and join the dental industry. With a flexible, year-round schedule, you can get started today!
1http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/healthy-teeth-14/electric-toothbrushes
2http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/oralhealth/Topics/GumDiseases/PeriodontalGumDisease.htm#periodontitis