About Me

My photo
Dr. Nathan Berry was born in Augusta, Georgia, and grew up across the Savannah River in North Augusta, SC. He attended the University of Georgia where he earned his bachelor degree in biological sciences. This is also the place he met his wife, Teresa, whose family lives in Madison, CT. Dr. Berry attended dental school at the University of Louisville School of Dentistry in Louisville, KY, after spending one year as a dental assistant in Chapel Hill, NC. We at Hartford Dental Associates,are supremely confident that you will appreciate Dr Berry's approach to oral health care, sense of humor, and southern hospitality, too.

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Electric Toothbrush vs Manual Toothbrush

Wondering if that hi-tech power toothbrush on display at your dentist’s office is really better than the regular ones?

In addition to things like your brushing technique, how often you brush and the length of time you spend doing it, experts believe that the type of toothbrush you use will directly affect how well you remove plaque. Whether you use an manual or electric toothbrush the most important part is the proper removal of the plaque (bacteria).

Often times people have a hard time removing all of the plaque with a manual toothbrush, causing gum irritation, swelling, and even periodontal disease to occur. Therefore, it is recommended to patients that are having a hard time removing plaque to use an electric toothbrush to ensure that all plaque is adequately removed. Children often think electric toothbrushes are fun and will therefore use them more often. Elderly and/or patients that have hand/wrist dexterity problems are also great candidates to use a electric toothbrush vs a manual.

Technique, when brushing your teeth with a manual or electric toothbrush is another major factor. Ideally brushing with the toothbrush bristles angled towards the gum line ensuring the plaque is being removed under the gums is one of the best techniques, but there are a variety of techniques depending on your age and oral health.

There are a variety of toothbrushes and brushing techniques. Therefore it's very important to speak to your Dental Hygienist to see what is the best option for you!

No comments:

Post a Comment