3 Key Benefits of an Electric Toothbrush

Many experienced dentists recommend electric toothbrushes to their patients. Electric toothbrushes do a better job removing plaque than manual toothbrushes, and they can reduce the risk of oral health problems like gum disease and tooth decay.

In this blog, we will explain the three key benefits of electric toothbrushes for your oral health.

1. More Thorough Plaque and Food Removal

Since they spin or vibrate, electric toothbrushes can reach plaque and food particles on all tooth surfaces much more easily than manual toothbrushes. Electric toothbrushes use added motion to help sweep plaque and food away from your enamel, reducing the chance of developing tooth decay.

2. Fights Gingivitis and Gum Disease

Electric toothbrushes are highly effective in preventing gum disease. Since the brushes remove plaque down to the gum line, patients have an advantage when it comes to keeping their teeth healthy. More effective plaque removal means that tartar is less likely to develop and that periodontal pockets have less chance to form between the teeth and gums.

3. Fights Bad Breath

Electric toothbrushes remove buildup inside your mouth, removing the source of bad breath. If you have persistent bad breath despite using an electric toothbrush, please speak with us and make an appointment for an evaluation.

Types of Electric Toothbrushes

• Oscillating: These toothbrushes move back and forth to remove plaque and food particles.
• Rotary: These brushes spin their bristles to eliminate plaque and other debris.
• Sonic: These toothbrushes produce high-frequency vibrations that dislodge plaque, food, and bacteria.

All three of these toothbrush types effectively prevent oral health problems and remove plaque.

Consistency is Important

Even if you use an electric toothbrush, you will not see extra benefits unless you use it properly and consistently. Running the brush around your mouth for a few seconds daily is not typically enough to improve oral health. Make sure you brush for the recommended two minutes, reaching all quadrants of your mouth.

Electric Toothbrushes and Flossing

You may believe using an electric toothbrush is enough to keep your teeth healthy, but you still need to floss to remove plaque from the gum line and between your teeth. Even "floss action" toothbrushes with extended bristles cannot do as thorough a job as dental floss. If you find flossing challenging, use floss picks or an electric water flosser system.

Call Greater Essex Dental

Electric toothbrushes can cut your risk of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems. They can be a highly beneficial part of your oral care routine.

If you want to ask us questions about how best to care for your teeth at home, please call Greater Essex Dental's Merrimac, MA, office at 978-346-4610. We can help you determine the best home care methods for your teeth and schedule an appointment.