Which is better; Manual or Powered toothbrush?

• It is very important to keep mouth healthy. Main objective behind using a tooth brush is to remove plaque.
• There has not been any significant difference, but some studies suggest slightly better results with use of powered tooth brushes.
• Brushing for adequate time, brushing each surface of all teeth, brushing twice a day after meal are key steps to a healthy mouth.
• Powered tooth brushes have timers, which enables to brush for adequate duration of time.
• Powered tooth brushes have interactive apps for children. Parents may find it easier to encourage children to brush with interactive powered tooth brushes.
• Manual toothbrushes are affordable as compared to powered toothbrushes.
• Individuals with difficulty doing hand movements including seniors may find powered tooth brushes to be more effective cleaning plaque.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change my tooth brush?

• It is recommended to change a tooth brush every 3-4 months.
• Change your toothbrush after sore throat or respiratory infection.
• Change your toothbrush if bristles are damaged.

What kind of tooth paste should I use?

• Use products with Canadian Dental Association verification seal.
• Fluoridated tooth pastes are recommended for adults.
• For 0-3 years of age, fluoridated tooth paste is only recommended if risk of cavities is high. If recommended, use only a size of rice grain.
• For 3-6 years of age, tooth paste of the size of a green pea is recommended.
• For adults a pea sized toothpaste is enough to brush properly.

Can I cause damage to my teeth by brushing?

• If done improperly using harder brush, you can damage your gums. It may result in gum recession, exposing the root of the tooth.
• Damage to the exposed root of the tooth can happen if a lot of pressure is used while brushing.
• Wait at least 20-30 minutes after eating a meal before you brush your teeth.

Brushing Technique

1. Always use a soft bristle tooth brush with different length bristles.
2. Hold tooth brush bristles at 45-degree angle at the gum line.
3. Make circular motion 2-3 times covering 2-3 teeth at one time.
4. Make sure to advance 1-2 teeth at a time so that each tooth is covered multiple times.

Flossing at least once a day preferably after dinner.

• Toothbrush does not necessarily go in between adjacent teeth. This place becomes a hiding place for bacteria and food also gets stuck in between teeth. Flossing is the best way to clean spaces between teeth.
• Flossing becomes even important for both children and adults with braces. It is difficult to clean teeth with braces.
• ater floss is an alternative for individuals who have difficulty using traditional floss.

Flossing Technique

1. Cut approximately 18-20 inches of floss.
2. Wrap ends of the floss around your middle and index fingers leaving 2-3 inches between to wrap around teeth.
3. Wrap floss around each tooth in a C-shape.
4. Make sure the floss goes below the gum line and around each surface of the tooth.
5. Check with your dentist to evaluate your flossing technique.