Gain some oral health advantages by switching from a manual toothbrush to an electric toothbrush this year. Although a majority of people still use a manual toothbrush, a growing number are choosing to go with power when it comes to their daily oral hygiene routine. Power toothbrushes have come a long way since they were first introduced to the US in 1960. Although a power toothbrush can offer unique benefits to the average user, at the end of the day, it is still a matter of technique and not the toothbrush itself that matters most.
Both electronic and sonic toothbrushes are considered “power toothbrushes.” The name fits its function considering the number of strokes per minute these instruments deliver. While brushing with a manual toothbrush, you will average about 300 strokes per minute. This may sound like a lot, but it does not compare to the 30,000 strokes a sonic toothbrush can deliver per minute or the 5,000 that an electric toothbrush puts out! Not only does the rapid back and forth motion scrub plaque off of your teeth, but it keeps your gums healthy too. Brushing your gums is often neglected or poorly attempted when using a manual brush. A power toothbrush can do wonders in gingivitis prevention by providing essential stimulation and cleaning of your gums. With such efficiency behind a simple handheld power toothbrush, it is no wonder people claim their mouth feels cleaner.
There is no denying that these power toothbrushes come at a much higher price than a manual toothbrush. But most patients who use a power toothbrush say the extra clean is well worth the extra dollars. It is not so much that the power toothbrush does the work for you – it can actually do it better.
Talk to your dentist if you still need help determining if an electric or sonic toothbrush is right for you and your personality. If you tend to avoid technology because it intimidates you, you certainly will not get the full benefits of a power toothbrush.
