Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Electric vs Manual Toothbrushes?

Patients often ask which kind of toothbrush should they use? This question can be a rather complex issue, but we can break it down to three types of toothbrushes:

1. Rotating Head Toothbrush
2. Sonic Toothbrush
3. Manual Toothbrush

I have tried all three of them, and find that they each have their own strengths. I own an Oral-B, Sonicare, and an oral-b manual toothbrush. I found that the Oral-B was really good for removing plaque in between teeth (I tested this by flossing afterwards to see what the toothbrush missed). I like the sonicare since it cleans the gums really well and is very gentle. The manual toothbrush... varies a lot. All you need is a soft toothbrush and the proper technique.

That brings us to the importance of proper technique. Here's a very good guide from Colgate on the aspects of brushing technique:

http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Articles/Oral-and-Dental-Health-Basics/Oral-Hygiene/Oral-Hygiene-Basics/article/Taking-Care-of-Your-Teeth.cvsp

I would recommend an electric toothbrush for people who have a hard time reaching the backs of the backmost teeth, which is almost everyone.

Thursday, August 4, 2011

Welcome

Welcome to my new blog... created at 2am. Hope to use this blog to make you more aware and informed about anything and everything about dentistry.