How to Use Electric Toothbrush

The basis of good oral hygiene is maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Through proper brushing techniques, we can avoid plaque buildup, which causes tooth decay, gingivitis (gum disease) and peritonitis (bone disease), by eliminating the bacteria that cause deterioration and infection. Because our mouths contain up to 600 types of bacteria, the area is a perfect breeding ground for all sorts of oral problems, which can be prevented by using proper brushing techniques.

Using an electric toothbrush can provide a deeper cleaning for all of your teeth as well as helping to strengthen the gums. An electric toothbrush helps us become more motivated to brush our teeth and is additionally helpful for those with limited manual dexterity. If you suffer from surface stains, the continued use of an electric toothbrush can help to diminish discoloration.

When using an electric toothbrush, apply a normal amount of toothpaste to the bristles. Insert the brush into your mouth and then turn on the device. Small rotating heads will activate the bristles, or if you have a sonic device, you will feel a similar cleansing action. Apply a light pressure as you guide the brush over and around each tooth as well as along the gum line. You will not need to apply pressure, as doing so can damage the enamel and potentially chafe your gums, which may lead to bleeding. Work your way from one side of your lower or upper line of teeth, from one side to the other along the front and then do the same on the back side of teeth. You can also brush according to quadrants: upper left, lower left, upper right, lower right. Take your time and enjoy the process.

Once you have completed the cleaning, turn off the brush while it is still in your mouth. Rinse the bristles and return the unit to its charge base.

Electric toothbrushes often incorporate timers, which help prevent you from rushing through your cleansing process. Timers are usually set for 2-minute increments, and some come with quadrant timers for each section of your mouth, usually set for 30 seconds each. Some electric toothbrushes come with power settings, allowing you to use a lower level of intensity if your gums are sensitive. Brush heads come in both adult and child sizes. If you wear braces, buy a small size brush head, which will allow for greater ease when cleaning around each brace area.

Floss between your teeth everyday to remove plaque that builds up in this area. Even an electric toothbrush cannot always reach these fine areas.