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Over the past few decades, electric toothbrushes have increased in popularity for a number of reasons.  Some of these reasons include, but are not limited to, the following:

·         They help to reduce stains on teeth

·         They clean bacteria from the surfaces of teeth.

·         Because they remove bacteria, they also assist in the removal of plaque.

·         Cleaner teeth help minimize the risk of tooth decay and gum disease

·         Children consider them fun to use.

·         Even for adults, they can also be easier to manipulate and control than manual toothbrushes.

Your choice of an electric tooth brush should be based on where you will be using it and how many people in your household will need it.  You also have to consider any special dental conditions you or a family member may have when selecting the toothbrush head options. 

We recommend that no matter what you buy, that you get a model with a built in timer.  This will ensure that you brush your teeth for the recommended time necessary for proper dental care.  If you have bridges or implants, or if you are currently dealing with a challenging situation that affects your dental bite, you may want an electric toothbrush that has additional head options. 

You never want to share a toothbrush with even a close relative.  If you are buying the system for the whole family, look for a model that has different colored brush heads.  Then, you can color code each head(s) to a member of the family. 

If you have never used one of these devices before, we also recommend that you get one with multiple power settings.  It will probably be a shock to your mouth to use something like this at full speed the first time you turn it on, so ease into it.

Finally, if you are going to be travelling, you need to get a cordless model that can hold a charge for two weeks without recharging.  This is particularly recommended for overseas travel, where power outlets may not be available in the same voltage as they are here in the United States.

Never use anything other than soft bristles. 

To use an electric toothbrush, apply a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.  Place the toothbrush in your mouth, and close your lips slightly to prevent splattering.  Hold the jaw in a relaxed, open position so you can reach all tooth surfaces.

Concentrate the brush on the gumline.  Angle the bristles according to the manufacturer's directions.  Turn on the toothbrush and allow it to turn against the tooth and gumline for a few seconds.  Do not press down hard; the brush will do its own work. 

Brush both the insides and outsides of every tooth, including the backs of the front teeth, and all the chewing surfaces.  Unless otherwise directed by your dentist, set the timer to approximately 2 minutes. 

It is just as important when you brush as it is how you brush.  Always brush your teeth after breakfast because it cleans away morning food debris.  Always brush at bedtime to protect your teeth all night.

Ask your dentist any questions you have about using your electric toothbrush.  He or she will be happy to offer tips for better brushing and a clean, fresh, healthy mouth.