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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.
The Academy of General Dentistry is a non-profit organization
of more than 37,000 general dentists dedicated to staying up-to-date in
the profession through continuing education. A general dentist is the primary
care provider for patients of all ages and is responsible for the diagnosis,
treatment, management and overall coordination of services related to patient's
oral health needs. Learn more about AGD member dentists or find more information
on dental health topics at www.agd.org/consumer.
CONTACT:
Susan Urbanczyk, public relations manager, at 312.440.4308 or media@agd.org
or Jennifer Starkey, public relations coordinator, at 312.440.4341 or
media@agd.org.
NOTE:
Information that appears in General Dentistry, the AGD's peer-reviewed
journal, AGD Impact, the AGD's newsmagazine and related press releases
do not necessarily reflect the endorsement of the AGD.
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