Park
Cities Dental
"The
Art and Science of a Healthy Smile"
Toothbrushes
Angled
heads, raised bristles, oscillating tufts and handles that change colors
with use: you name it, toothbrushes come in all shapes, colors and sizes,
promising to perform better than the rest. But no body of scientific evidence
exists yet to show that any one type of toothbrush design is better at
removing plaque than another. The only thing that matters is that
you brush your teeth. Many just don't brush long enough. Most people brush
less than a minute, but to effectively reach all areas and scrub off cavity-causing
bacteria, it is recommended to brush for two to three minutes.
Which toothbrush is best?
In general, a toothbrush head should be small ( 1"
by 1/2") for easy access. 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. Dr. Hibbs recommends a mechanical toothbrush,
including Braun Oral-B or SoniCare.
When should I change my toothbrush?
Be sure to change your toothbrush, or toothbrush head (if you're
using an electric toothbrush) before the bristles become splayed and frayed.
Not only are old toothbrushes ineffective, but they may harbor harmful
bacteria that can cause infection such as gingivitis and periodontitis.
Toothbrushes should be changed every three to four months. Sick people
should change their toothbrush at the beginning, of in illness and after
they feel better.
How do I brush?
Place the toothbrush beside your teeth at a 45-degree
angle and rub back-and-forth gently. Brush outside the teeth, inside the
tooth, your tongue, and especially brush on chewing surfaces and between
teeth. Be sure to brush at least twice a day, especially after meals.
Electric vs. manual toothbrushes?
Electric toothbrushes don't work that much better than
manual toothbrushes, but they do motivate some reluctant brushers to clean
their teeth more often. The whizzing sounds of an electric toothbrush and
the tingle of the rotary tufts swirling across teeth and gums often captivates
people who own electric toothbrushes. They are advantageous because they
can cover more area faster. Electric toothbrushes are recommended for people
who have limited manual dexterity, such as a disabled or elderly person
and those who wear braces.
Sometimes, it takes more time and effort to use an electric toothbrush because batteries must be recharged, and it must be cleaned after even, use. Most electric toothbrushes have rechargeable batteries that take 10 to 45 minutes to recharge. The gearing in an electric toothbrush occasionally must be lubricated with water. Prices range from $30 to $99.
How do electrics work?
Electric toothbrushes generally work by using tufts of nylon bristles
to stimulate gums and clean teeth in an oscillating or rotary motion. Some
tufts are arranged in a circular pattern, while others have the traditional
shape of several bristles I lined up on a row.
When first using an electric toothbrush. expect some bleeding from your gums. The bleeding will stop when you learn to control the brush and your gums become healthier. Children under 10 should be supervised when using, an electric toothbrush. Avoid mashing the tufts against your teeth in an effort to clean them. Use light force and slow movements, and allow the electric bristle action to do its job.
How long have toothbrushes been
used?
The first toothbrush was invented in China in 1000 A.D. It was an
ivory-handled toothbrush with bristles made from a horse's mane. Toothbrushes
became popular in the 19th century among the Victorian affluent. Mass marketing
and the advent of nylon bristles in the 20th century made toothbrushes
inexpensive and available to everyone.
Don't forget... Visit your dentist regularly because tooth brushing and flossing is most effective with periodic checkups and cleanings.