Dental Factoid
The first toothbrushes were small sticks or twigs mashed at one end to create a broader cleaning surface. The Chinese lay claim to the first bristle toothbrush. Europe adopted the bristle brush in the 17th century, and many dentists practicing in colonial America advised their patients to use the brush.
The first toothbrushes were small sticks or twigs mashed at one end to create a broader cleaning surface. The Chinese lay claim to the first bristle toothbrush. Europe adopted the bristle brush in the 17th century, and many dentists practicing in colonial America advised their patients to use the brush.
A recent study in the Journal of the American Dental Association examined powered toothbrushes. The study evaluated the effectiveness of one type of powered toothbrush in 16,093 patients. The toothbrush provided by the company in the study was considered by dental professionals (dentists and hygienists) to have a positive effect on the oral health of more than 80 percent of the patients. Most patients reported their oral health was somewhat better or much better after using the powered toothbrush.
That said, electric toothbrushes don`t work that much better than manual toothbrushes, but they do motivate some reluctant brushers to clean their teeth more often. Electric toothbrushes do have one advantage over manual - 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.
Children under 10 should be supervised when using an electric toothbrush. 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. 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. When first using an electric toothbrush, expect some bleeding from the gums. The bleeding will stop when your child learns to control the brush and the gums become healthier.