In the past, manufacturers went through great lengths to design the perfect toothbrush, focusing mostly on the shape of the bristles. But today, many patients are interested in electronic toothbrushes that use a pulse of energy to remove plaque and buildup from the surface of your teeth. The dentists at Sanford Center for Total Health Dentistry in Allentown, PA often consult patients on good at-home dental
care, and having the right toothbrush is a major part of that. Learn more about electronic and traditional toothbrushes to decide which one is best for you.
Traditional and Electronic Brushes
In ancient times, people would use pretty much anything they could find to clean and brush their teeth, whether it was a twig from a branch, or horse hairs. The first modern toothbrush was created in the late 1700s from relatively primitive materials, and progressed in design over time. Today’s traditional toothbrush is made from plastic and nylon. Most standard brushes have a rectangular shape with curves along the top to match the curves of your teeth.
The first electronic toothbrush was created in 1960, but significant advances in the design have been made in more recent years. The brushes are usually more round in shape and designed to move in a quick circular motion. The fast movements of an electronic brush (over 190 million movements per minute for ultrasonic devices) make it better at removing plaque and food that is hard to reach.
Which Brush Is Better for You?
Your Allentown, PA dentist will likely tell you that an electronic toothbrush is the superior choice, but both are viable options as long as you use them regularly. Here are some other considerations to help you make your decision:
- Time (usual brushing time of two minutes is reduced significantly with an electronic device).
- Budget (electronic toothbrushes are typically more expensive than traditional brushes).
- Dental problems (if you’ve had dental issues in the past, an electronic brush will be more effective at reducing the chance of it reoccurring).
Consult Your Allentown PA Dentist
Your dentist can tell you if the toothbrush you've been using is right for you or if you should try something different. A good brush is a relatively small investment that can save you thousands of dollars in dental expenses. Call the Sanford Center for Total Health Dentistry in Allentown, Pa today at (610) 820-6000 to schedule a checkup and consultation.