It may surprise you to know that some St. Louis people have very strong opinions about which type of toothbrush is the best: manual or electric. Is there really one that is clearly better?
Most Chesterfield cosmetic dentists will tell you that all toothbrushes, when used correctly, are effective in removing plaque and that choosing which kind you like is really up to you.
Today in the Chesterfield dental blog we want to give you some extra information about toothbrushes to help you pick which kind is right for you or your child.
You need to consider cost and convenience. Some St. Louis people argue that even though electric toothbrushes are more costly, you’ll save on dental bills. However, there are no definitive studies to back up this claim.
Manual toothbrushes are easy to find, whereas not all drugstores in the Chesterfield, Town and Country, or Ballwin, MO area carry all types of electric toothbrushes. This can be difficult when buying replacement heads. People who travel may find that a smaller, manual toothbrush is easier to pack (and batteries are not needed).
The pressure you put on your gums with either type of toothbrush is important. Some say that it’s difficult to know how much pressure they use with electric toothbrushes, while others say that because of the quick electrical movements, they tend to be more gentle on their gums than when they use manual brushes. You may want to try them both to see what your brushing style is and discuss it with your Chesterfield dentist.
Special consideration should be taken for people with arthritis. Most Chesterfield area dentists advise their elderly and arthritic patients to use electric toothbrushes when their manual dexterity is diminished. As for children, once they are old enough, an electric toothbrush may be preferable, but safety should always be the first concern for St. Louis parents. Also, all dentists in the Chesterfield, Town and Country, and Ballwin, MO areas will remind you to look for the ADA seal on any dental product you buy.
Whichever type of toothbrush you choose, make sure you get soft bristles and replace it every three to four months.
I’m Dr. Martin Buchheit and I want to thank you for visiting my Chesterfield dental blog.
If you are looking for friendly dental care, teeth whitening, or cosmetic dentistry in or around St. Louis or Chesterfield, give us a call at 314-576-0088.
The following online article was used as source material for this blog: Brichford, Connie, “Choosing a Toothbrush: Manual vs. Electric,” WebMD, http://www.everydayhealth.com/dental-health/101/manual-v-electric-which-is-the-better-brush.aspx, accessed on November 29, 2011
Contact Town and Country Cosmetic Dentistry and Implant Center:
314-576-0088
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
14377 Woodlake Dr Ste 205
Chesterfield, Missouri
63017
