The majority of Americans typically brush their teeth twice a day with a standard toothbrush only, and often skip flossing.
Brushing twice a day is a good start, but if you really want to optimize the beauty and health of your smile, you should consider investing in a good electric toothbrush and some interdental toothbrushes for in between teeth.
Should I get an Electric toothbrush?
It’s important to keep in mind that oral bacteria has been linked to respiratory conditions and cardiovascular disease. A better home dental care routine can save you from having to undergo invasive procedures later in life, and prevents many future health complications.
While patients are generally never told that electric toothbrushes are a requirement for good dental health, they do have a noticeable impact. There are certain people who require more time or power when brushing their teeth:
For Quick Brushers: those who rush through their morning routine should use an electric toothbrush. Many people don’t brush long enough, and can optimize this time by using an electric toothbrush.
Those with mobility Issues: If you have any difficulties with your fine motor skills, arthritis, or other mobility issues that dictate a simpler lifestyle, an electric toothbrush can make your life much easier. If the motion of brushing your teeth causes any pain, your dentist may have already recommended that you use a powered toothbrush to ensure a proper home dental care routine.
Children: Children are notorious for not brushing long or thoroughly enough. An electric toothbrush is fun, effective, and encourages better brushing habits when used in conjunction with oral care education.
Hard Brushers: Those who tend to brush too hard can benefit from an electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor. Brushing too hard can cause sensitivity, erode tooth enamel, and damage gums. Allowing the motorized bristles to do the work, and having the added feature of a pressure sensor that will alert you when brushing too hard, can result in a more balanced dental care routine.
Our Recommendation:
Phillips Sonicare consistently creates the most effective powered toothbrushes. At Feldhake & Associates, we are confident in recommending any of their products, especially the Philips Sonicare DiamondClean rechargeable electric toothbrush.
Interproximal Toothbrushes or Floss?
Plaque removal is important not only for your oral health, but your overall well-being.
Flossing is an effective way of removing plaque that cannot be reached by brushing alone; however a majority of people fail to do so often enough to preserve their dental health.
Interproximal or Interdental brushes provide an alternative to flossing as they are easier to use and more effective than using floss to strategically remove hard to reach plaque between teeth. It has also been reported that many people have been using floss incorrectly, causing damage to their gums.
These brushes can be found in any pharmacy or supermarket. They are thin, round or cone-shaped, and have a small head with bristles. They are available with easy to grip handles and are used by inserting between teeth to easily remove elusive plaque.
Total Proper Dental Care and You
We cannot emphasize enough the importance of total proper dental care, including night-time brushing before sleep, as this is the perfect time for bacteria left in your mouth to multiply, form plaque, and add to the risk of periodontal disease.
These recommendations, and other important dental health prevention and education information, are just some of the ways Feldhake and Associates are a step ahead when it comes to your best oral care practices.
If you are looking for dental care in Glendale or Scottsdale, call Feldhake and Associates today – and show