Whenever we talk about the importance of preventive dental care, we get asked these questions a lot: “What toothpaste should I use?” or “What is the best dental floss?” and even “Which toothbrush is better – electric or manual?” Our answers are all the same. It is not really what you use but how often you use and whether you use these devices properly. You could have the best toothbrush but if you don’t brush properly and consistently then you won’t clean your teeth well enough to prevent problems. Most people just don't brush long enough. Most of us brush less than a minute, but to effectively reach all areas and remove cavity-causing bacteria, it is recommended to brush for at least two minutes.
What makes a good toothbrush?
- Its head should be small (1" by 1/2") for easy access to all areas of the mouth, teeth and gums.
- It should have a long, wide handle for a firm grasp.
- It should have soft nylon bristles with rounded ends so you won't hurt your gums.
Which toothbrush is better – electric or manual?
There are reasons why dentists like Dr. Reese recommend electronic brushes over traditional ones:
- Electric toothbrushes can clean more effectively than regular brushes if you are physically handicapped or have a cognitive impairment. Electric toothbrushes move by themselves so there’s less physical work.
- Electric toothbrushes have two heads that rotate in opposite directions making it a more effective cleaning instrument. Those using regular toothbrushes usually brush more on the opposite side of their dominant hand (the one that holds the toothbrush).
- Electric toothbrushes have smaller head sizes making it easier for them to reach hard-to-brush areas.
- Electric toothbrushes don’t have hard bristles and don’t brush your teeth too hard, scratching enamel or hurting your gums.
Dr. Reese Recommends Sonicare Toothbrushes
Dr. Reese has been selling Sonicare toothbrushes for years and he does so because he knows they work. You can read more about the different toothbrushes we carry in our dental office in this post.
All of our advanced scaling and root planing (SRP) patients will be given a Easy Clean Rechargeable Sonicare tooth brush with the option of upgrading to the Flexcare+ model.
Get Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned
While you might not be able to brush your teeth often and properly enough to ensure that your teeth won’t get any cavities, getting your teeth cleaned professionally by a dentist twice a year would ensure that what you normally would miss cleaning gets cleaned. Dr. Reese values the importance of preventive dental care. His clinic has shaped a 5-year warranty program around keeping regular cleaning appointments. As long as you continue to keep your oral hygiene visits every 6-months you can be eligible for free replacement or repair of Dr. Reese’s dental work within the previous 5 years. And if you’ve already had dental treatment, existing patients can be grandfathered into this program.
Call 317-882-0228 to schedule an appointment and start caring for your teeth today.