POWER TOOTHBRUSHES contributed by Marie Staley RDH
The toothbrush has been around for nearly 5,000 years. “Chew sticks,”
bone, wood, ivory and hog bristles all make up the far-reaching
history of this instrument of oral health. The nylon bristled
toothbrush that we now use was invented in 1938.
The American Dental Association recommends brushing
twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between the
teeth with floss or an interdental cleaner daily.
In addition to your brushing technique, how often you brush,
the length of time you spend doing it, and the type
of toothbrush you use will directly affect how well plaque is
removed. According to a 2005 independent study, power
toothbrushes with a rotation oscillation action removed more
plaque and reduced gingivitis more effectively than manual
toothbrushes.
The American Dental Association recommends brushing your
teeth for two minutes. The average manual toothbrush use is about
30 to 45 seconds. Power toothbrushes have timers to help you
keep track of how long you are brushing each quadrant of your
mouth for a total of two minutes of brushing.
In addition, technology is featured in the brush heads, bristles and
handle designs, such as ergonomically designed handles and
tapered or angled brush heads.
Power toothbrushes provide the recommended action and
time needed for optimal cleaning, while you only need to guide it
along all surfaces of your teeth and gums.