The bells are ringing and 2016 is almost here! At Algiers Dental Associates we want to help you with all your dental needs. One easy improvement you can make to benefit your smile is as simple as changing your toothbrush. Keep in mind the purpose of a toothbrush is to remove plaque and stimulate your gums to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Manual Toothbrush Benefits
–Ergonomically designed handles with special grips.
–Easily tucked in your pocket or bag to use away from home.
–Protect tooth enamel by not putting pressure on the teeth and gums, unlike powered toothbrushes.
–Crisscrossed, extra-long or multi-level bristles and cupped-bristle design for whitening benefits.
–Equipped with gum stimulators and tongue cleaner pads.
Old-fashioned manual toothbrushes work best for people who are good brushers and flossers. Just brush your teeth and gums for at least two minutes, and pay attention to the back molars and lower bottom teeth next to the tongue. Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush with gentle motions to avoid wearing down precious tooth enamel. Replace your toothbrush every three months so that the bristles are always firm and straight.
Electric Toothbrushes Benefits
–Good for people with limited manual dexterity, like children or older people with arthritis or just limited ability to move the shoulders, arms and hands.
–Larger handles than manual toothbrushes, making them easier to hold.
–Equipped with sensors to let you know when your two minutes of brushing time is up, and to let you know when you are brushing too hard.
–Brushing modes for sensitive teeth, whitening benefits, or gum massaging.
Electric toothbrushes with rotating oscillating bristles—which first rotate together in one direction and then switch and rotate in the opposite direction—do away with plaque better than manual toothbrushes or even electric brushes that spin in only one direction.
At Algiers Dental Associates, our caring dental team is here to help you reach all your oral health goals. Feel free to give us a call today at 504-361-3277 if you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment!