Hello, ,
My Thoughts on Electric Toothbrushes
Before I get started on this topic, I do own an electric toothbrush. I don't use it every day. I prefer using manual toothbrushes with very soft bristles.
I'm not against the use of them. Studies do show the benefits. But, there are a few points that give me pause for thought. I will share them with you.
The electric toothbrush industry is quick to say that electric toothbrushes will not damage or erode your gum line. I'm skeptical about such claims.
I do think, just like with a manual toothbrush, you can press way to hard with those spinning bristles and cause harm. We can just say it's my opinion, but it also seems more like common sense, doesn't it?
I did run across a piece of information from a company that was selling replacement tips for electric toothbrushes. They seemed to indicate that the electric heads should also be replaced once per month. They were suggesting that worn down bristles are more dangerous for your gums.
So, there are two points of view on the possibility that an electric toothbrush can harm your gums.
A moment ago, I told you that I use an electric. Here is what I do with them.
1. I keep them away from my gums.
2. I definitely change the heads once per month.
3. I don't use the one I have that often.
I prefer a soft manual toothbrush and I prefer taking my time and gently brushing every tooth surface I can reach. I believe it is also useful to warm the toothbrush head with water before using it. I don't always do that, but I think it is a good idea.
Here is an important point to help drive this home. The purpose of brushing is to disrupt plaque. The plaque is very easy to disrupt. It doesn't take much. The key is consistency. You have to disrupt this plaque often. Once you brush it away, the bacteria start to create another plaque layer.
If you don't disrupt this plaque for a period of about 24 hours, the bacteria are able to shield themselves from oxygen. Then they can reproduce more rapidly.
So you see, the purpose of disrupting the plaque is to expose the bacteria underneath to oxygen. It's the non-oxygen environment that aids the so called 'bad' bacteria. Those are the ones that tend to cause us problems, such as gum disease, cavities and bad breath.
Of course, many people talk about nutrition. You'll need to call me about that part. That is a vast topic involving many differing opinions - even amongst experts.
I wrote about this because not too infrequently, people ask me about electric toothbrushes.
I thought I would share.
David for Toothy Grins
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