Toothbrushes
How do I choose and use a toothbrush?
Angled heads, raised bristles, oscillating tufts and handles that
change colors with use: you name it, toothbrushes come in all shapes,
colors and sizes, promising to perform better than the rest. But no
body of scientific evidence exists yet to show that any one type of
toothbrush design is better at removing plaque than another. The only
thing that matters is that you brush your teeth.
Many just don't brush long enough. Most people brush less than a minute,
but to effectively reach all areas and scrub off cavity-causing bacteria,
it is recommended to brush for two to three minutes.
Which toothbrush is best?
In general, a toothbrush head should be small (1" by 1/2")
for easy access to all areas of the mouth, teeth and gums. It should
have a long, wide handle for a firm grasp. It should have soft nylon
bristles with rounded ends so you won't hurt your gums.
When should I change my toothbrush?
Be sure to change your toothbrush, or toothbrush head (if you're
using an electric toothbrush) before the bristles become splayed
and frayed. Not only are old toothbrushes ineffective, but they
may harbor harmful bacteria that can cause infection such as gingivitis
and periodontitis. Toothbrushes should be changed every three to
four months. Sick people should change their toothbrush at the beginning
of an illness and after they feel better.
How do I brush?
Place the toothbrush beside your teeth at a 45-degree angle and
rub back-and-forth gently. Brush outside the teeth, inside the tooth,
your tongue, and especially brush on chewing surfaces and between
teeth. Be sure to brush at least twice a day, especially after meals.
How long should I brush my teeth?
You should brush your teeth at least 2-3 minutes twice a day. Brush
your teeth for the length of a song on the radio, the right amount
of time to get the best results from brushing. Unfortunately, most
Americans only brush for 45-70 seconds twice a day.
Electric vs. manual toothbrushes
Electric toothbrushes don't work that much better than manual toothbrushes,
but they do motivate some reluctant brushers to clean their teeth
more often. The whizzing sounds of an electric toothbrush and the
tingle of the rotary tufts swirling across teeth and gums often
captivates people who own electric toothbrushes. They are advantageous
because they can cover more area faster. Electric toothbrushes are
recommended for people who have limited manual dexterity, such as
a disabled or elderly person and those who wear braces.
Sometimes, it takes more time and effort to use an electric toothbrush
because batteries must be recharged, and it must be cleaned after
every use. Most electric toothbrushes have rechargeable batteries
that take 10 to 45 minutes to recharge. The gearing in an electric
toothbrush occasionally must be lubricated with water. Prices range
from $30 to $99.
How do electrics work?
Electric toothbrushes generally work by using tufts of nylon bristles
to stimulate gums and clean teeth in an oscillating or rotary motion.
Some tufts are arranged in a circular pattern, while others have
the traditional shape of several bristles lined up on a row.
When first using an electric toothbrush, expect some bleeding from
your gums. The bleeding will stop when you learn to control the
brush and your gums become healthier. Children under 10 should be
supervised when using an electric toothbrush. Avoid mashing the
tufts against your teeth in an effort to clean them. Use light force
and slow movements, and allow the electric bristle action to do
its job.
How long have toothbrushes been used?
The first toothbrush was invented in China in 1000 A.D. It was an
ivory-handled toothbrush with bristles made from a horse's mane.
Toothbrushes became popular in the 19th century among the Victorian
affluent. Mass marketing and the advent of nylon bristles in the
20th century made toothbrushes inexpensive and available to everyone.
Don't forget . . .
Visit your dentist regularly because toothbrushing and flossing
is most effective with periodic checkups and cleanings.
This information was compiled for you by the Academy
of General Dentistry. Your dentist cares about long-term dental
health for you and your family and demonstrates that concern by
belonging to the Academy of General Dentistry. As one of the 37,000
general dentists in the United States and Canada who are members
of the Academy, your dentist participates in an ongoing program
of professional development and continuing education to remain current
with advances in the profession and to provide quality patient treatment.
Visit the AGD's website at www.agd.org. To find a dentist, please
call 877/2X-A-YEAR (877/292-9327). You have permission to photocopy
this page and distribute it to your patients.
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