PRESERVE YOUR TEETH IN NEW YORK CITY
How to Brush Your Teeth With an Electric Toothbrush
Bacteria tend to build up on our teeth throughout the day. All it takes is a single bacterium adhering to a tooth to begin forming colonies that can eventually develop into mature bacterial populations. This buildup can be harmful to both the teeth and gums.
Careful and frequent removal of bacteria through brushing can help prevent the accumulation of dental biofilm on the teeth.
The electric toothbrush was originally developed for people with limited manual dexterity. However, electric toothbrushes have since become widely popular among people of all ages and abilities.
Why Use an Electric Toothbrush?
An electric toothbrush can be more effective than a conventional toothbrush at reducing bacterial biofilm when used properly.
Electric toothbrushes may also offer several additional benefits:
- Helping prevent surface stains
- Applying less unnecessary pressure to the teeth
- Reducing the risk of tooth abrasion
- Making it easier to clean around the gumline
- Reducing accidental gum injuries that may contribute to gum recession
How to Use an Electric Toothbrush
Using an electric toothbrush requires a different technique than brushing with a manual toothbrush. It may take up to two weeks to become fully comfortable with the new brushing method.
With a manual toothbrush, the hand creates the brushing motion. With an electric toothbrush, the brush performs the cleaning motion for you. Your job is to guide the brush head carefully across every tooth and along the entire gumline.
Position the bristles at approximately a 45-degree angle so they contact both the tooth and the edge of the gums.
Insert electric-toothbrush positioning images here.
Practice Before Adding Toothpaste
Because an electric toothbrush can feel powerful at first, begin practicing in front of a mirror without toothpaste.
Carefully guide the brush around every tooth and along the gumline. You may even want to practice positioning the toothbrush before turning it on. This will help you become comfortable reaching the different surfaces of your teeth.
Step-by-Step Brushing Instructions
- Place a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on the bristles.
- Put the toothbrush inside your mouth before turning it on. This helps prevent toothpaste from splashing.
- Turn on the toothbrush.
- Position the bristles against the teeth and gumline at approximately a 45-degree angle.
- Slowly guide the brush head around each tooth without making forceful brushing motions.
- Trace the entire gumline and make sure the bristles reach the cervical area, where the tooth meets the gums.
- Clean the front, back, and chewing surfaces of every tooth.
Once you are comfortable using the electric toothbrush, you can brush with your mouth closed to help control splashing. Allow the toothbrush to perform the brushing motion while you slowly guide it around your mouth.
