Brushing- Type of toothbrush-
I recommend a soft toothbrush as plaque only has a ‘ double cream’ type consistency. Therefore, a soft toothbrush can easily remove the build up. Using a soft brush also means you can get right up to the gum margin without causing gum tenderness.
Using a harder toothbrush and putting too much pressure onto the gums can also lead to tooth wear over time. I see many patients with tooth wear and recession in the roots of their teeth from brushing overly hard.
Electric toothbrushes- Electric toothbrushes are excellent for good cleaning. You can get the same result with a manual toothbrush if you are thorough with your cleaning but an electric toothbrush does the work for you. I would choose a rechargeable toothbrush over a battery powered one. There are two types of cleaning movement’s available these are oscillating and vibrating (or sonic), a study has shown them to be very close in efficiency, so it is a personal preference. I would also make sure it has a timer included. If you brush too hard, then find one that has a pressure sensor included.
Brushing technique- Firstly, tilt your brush at a 45-degree angle and aim the bristles at the gum margin. Use small circulation motions to brush up and down the tooth. Do the outside surface of all your teeth and then the inside surface of all your teeth. Then move to the biting surfaces of your teeth, place the bristles on top of the teeth and gently brush back and forth. You should brush for a full 2 minutes.
If you want more information, visit www.oceanbreezedental.com.au. Or you can book an appointment online or ring 03 5255 2584