The Benefits of Using An Electric Toothbrush

Taking care of your teeth is important for your dental health, as well as your overall health, and an electric toothbrush can make brushing easier and better.

Brushing your teeth not only prevents cavities, gum disease, and bad breath, but it also protects your overall health by reducing harmful bacteria in your mouth. Using a manual toothbrush, however, can make the process more time consuming and less effective.

Here are a few reasons why an electric toothbrush is a better option for preserving your smile.

Better Teeth Cleaning

Electric toothbrushes clean your teeth more thoroughly than manual ones. The bristles move thousands of times per minute, helping to remove more plaque and keeping your teeth cleaner. They can also get to hard-to-reach areas, like the back of your mouth or between your teeth, where a manual toothbrush might miss. 

Proper Brushing

Many people don’t brush properly. They might brush too hard, not brush long enough, or miss spots. Electric toothbrushes make it easier. They often come with timers to remind you to brush for the recommended two minutes and sensors that warn you if you’re pressing too hard. These features help you get a better clean without hurting your gums.

Good For Your Gums

If your gums are sensitive or prone to bleeding, an electric toothbrush can help. The gentle, quick-moving bristles clean your gums without hurting them. Over time, this can make your gums healthier and less likely to bleed. 

Fun for Younger Users

Brushing your teeth doesn’t have to be a chore. Electric toothbrushes can make the routine more enjoyable, especially for kids. Some options come with fun designs, music, or even apps that turn brushing into a game. This makes it easier to build good brushing habits and stick to them.

Customizable Options

Electric toothbrushes have different settings you can choose from, like gentle modes for sensitive teeth or stronger modes for deep cleaning. These options let you customize your brushing to match your specific needs, whether you have braces, sensitive gums, or simply want whiter teeth.  

Easier Brushing

Electric toothbrushes are great for people who have a tough time brushing their teeth, like those with arthritis or limited hand strength. You don’t have to move your hand very much, as the toothbrush does the work for you.

Better for the Planet

Models with replaceable heads are more eco-friendly than regular toothbrushes that you have to throw away every few months. Since you only replace the head, you reduce waste. 

Photo curtesy of Philips

Long-term Savings

While electric toothbrushes cost more upfront, they can save you money over time. By helping you clean your teeth better, they help prevent dental problems, leading to fewer costly trips to the dentist.  

If you’re considering buying an electric toothbrush, Dr. Brooks recommends the Philips Sonicare 4700. Thanks to its flexible design, the Sonicare 4700 removes up to 10x more plaque from hard-to-reach areas than traditional brushes, and has a built-in pressure sensor to ensure a gentle yet truly deep cleaning along your gum line and between your teeth.

Do you have questions about the services offered at White Oak Dental? Would you like to schedule a new-patient visit? Contact us today!