Have you ever wondered if those hi-tech electronic toothbrushes in commercials are really any better than your regular toothbrush? Or is it all just hype? It’s a good question, with a pretty simple answer.
For starters, The American Journal of Dentistry and the British Dental Journal support the use of electric toothbrushes. Also, our resident expert, Dr. Rafoth says, “E-brushes are always better. They are more efficient and more effective at removing debris, stain, and biofilm.” And the evidence is there to support the claim.
Electric toothbrushes simply cannot be beat when it comes to efficiency. It would take hours to manually scrub your teeth with a regular toothbrush as many times as an electric toothbrush will in a regular brushing session. Using and e-brush cuts down the work on your part, whirring away so you don’t have to.
They are also better when it comes to cleaning ability. The quick-moving, oscillating bristles remove debris and biofilm more thoroughly than manual brushing, and many e-brush models have advanced designs that clean even better in the hard-to-reach areas such as the backs of molars.
And finally, many electric toothbrushes have settings that will keep you accountable. They will time your brushing; signaling you with a beep when you’ve hit that 2-minute mark everyone knows about, but few people ever reach without a timer.
Of course, you’ve still got to remember to pick it up and start brushing at least twice a day, but once you do, you’ll have your teeth cleaned efficiently, thoroughly, and for the right amount of time.
Chris Rafoth is the owner of Lyons Creek Dental Care, providing medical dentistry, dental implants, and facial esthetics since 1998 for Shoreline and greater Seattle areas, as well as communities in King and Snohomish counties. Any questions or comments? Contact him at chris@lyonscreekdentalcare.com today!
