brush your teeth

Common Mistakes When Using An Electric Toothbrush

Electric toothbrushes are known to clean teeth more effectively than regular toothbrushes. However, if you aren’t using the electric toothbrush properly, you won’t receive the maximum benefits it brings to the table for your teeth. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for before taking home and using your supercharged cleaning buddy.

Making the wrong purchasing decision

It can be tricky when shopping for the proper electric toothbrush that is the most suitable for you.  Make sure it fits in the hand comfortably, with the size of the electric head suited for the size of your mouth.  Also keep in mind that if you have a heavy hand with brushing, you might want to purchase an electric brush with soft bristles to avoid irritating your gums.

Not brushing for the appropriate duration of time

It is known and recommended to brush for a full two minutes about 2 times a day.  Although some electric toothbrushes may have a timer, it is always beneficial to make sure you are getting the proper amount of time when fighting away those germs and bacteria.

Heavy-handed overbrushing

You should brush only 2 times a day for 2 minutes. No more or no less. Brushing more than 3 times a day wears down tooth enamel (which is something your teeth need) and may hurt your gums if you brush too hard.

Not replacing your toothbrush head when needed

It is time to replace your toothbrush head after 3 months of use, especially if you are noticing frayed or broken bristles. Brushing with overused toothbrush heads wont give you the optimal results you are looking for. Keep in mind that you should also replace your toothbrush head if you have been sick.

Manual or Electric Toothbrush?

In recent years electric toothbrushes have gained increasing popularity among young adults and children.  Some parents have questioned if electric toothbrushes work better than just a manual toothbrush.  There are pros and cons to which one effectively works better at removing plaque from teeth. Technique is a key component when deciding which kind of toothbrush is best for you and your family.  For children, technique is often problematic in brushing teeth.  So if a child does not have the dexterity to manually brush all tooth surfaces properly, he/she will still not be able to do so with an electric toothbrush. Parental assistance is recommended, and  helping your child is more beneficial than an electric or a manual toothbrush. We recommend allowing your child to brush his or her teeth first and a parent help finish brushing at the end. Have your child lie down on the floor with his/her head in your lap.  This allows you easier access and better visibility to your child’s teeth.  When helping your child, the toothbrush should be aimed at the gum line using a 45 degree angle.  Brushing should last a minimum of two minutes. Of the electric toothbrushes on the market, research suggests that an electric toothbrush that rotates is best.  This process is known as rotating and oscillating. The rotating and oscillating action removes more plaque and reduces gingivitis more effectively than a manual toothbrush. Whether you choose a manual or an electric toothbrush, select a brush with soft bristles.  Be sure to replace your toothbrush every three months or when the bristles are no longer straight and firm.  Replacing your toothbrush is essential because an old brush’s bristles are no longer in the correct position to effectively clean teeth.  Also, using a toothbrush that is size appropriate for your child is important.  If you choose to use an electric toothbrush for your kids, Oral B Professional or a Sonicare for Kids is a great choice for an electric toothbrush.

How Does the Food We Eat Affect Our Teeth?

As obesity runs rampant in the US, people are more acutely aware of how food affects their bodies in terms of fat content and calories, but do you know the effects food has on your body before it even reaches your stomach?

We know that sugary foods are bad for our teeth, but why exactly?

When you take a bite of food, you’re not just feeding yourself.  The bacteria in your mouth feasts as well, and sugar happens to be one of its favorite meals.  While the bacteria is feeding on the sugar, it’s giving off an acid byproduct that strips enamel off your teeth. The longer the sugar sits in your mouth, the longer the bacteria feeds on it. (Which is why some experts say snacking is harmful to your teeth.)  If the acid attacks your teeth for a prolonged period of time, more of the enamel is weakened and stripped away.

To prevent tooth enamel erosion, avoid the sugar.  Instead, opt for nutritious foods like cheese, raw vegetables, plain yogurt, or a piece of fruit.  On top of that, limit the amount of snacks you consume.  Each time you eat, the acid is attacking your teeth for about 20 minutes after the last time you swallow.  If you’re constantly eating snacks, your mouth has less of a chance to neutralize itself and get rid of the acid.