Dental technology is advancing all the time, and that includes devices intended for at-home oral hygiene. One of the most popular of those devices is the sonic toothbrush. If you’ve wondered whether or not you would benefit from use of a sonic toothbrush, we can answer that question easily: in all probability, the answer is yes! Here’s what you should know about sonic toothbrushes.
Put simply, a sonic toothbrush is a specific type of electronic toothbrush that produces sonic waves intended to stimulate the salivary glands to produce additional saliva. That saliva makes brushing and cleaning your teeth easier. In addition to the ultrasound and sonic waves produced by a sonic toothbrush, most of these products include bristles that vibrate at as much as 16,000 strokes per minute.
There are several brands of sonic toothbrushes available on the market, and the specific features of each one vary from one to the next. When trying to choose the toothbrush that’s right for you, you should take into consideration how the handle feels in your hand, and whether or not the head and bristles of the brush fit easily inside your mouth. Make sure that the toothbrush comes equipped with a soft-bristled brush, which is not only more effective in cleaning your teeth, but also easier on your gums and tooth enamel.
Studies have shown that electric toothbrushes – whether they’re sonic or not – do provide some advantages over manual brushes. The vibrating brush strokes are more effective at cleaning the tooth surface and removing plaque. And many styles come equipped with a two-minute timer that will let you know when your round of brushing should come to an end. Of course, you’ll still need to use proper brushing technique no matter what kind of toothbrush you use. That involves using short strokes and thoroughly cleaning all tooth surfaces, both inner and outer sides, on both the upper and lower plates. And even the most advanced electronic toothbrush won’t replace flossing. Floss after you brush, and consider using a water flosser as well for additional cleaning power.
The final reminder for an effective oral hygiene routine is to visit your dentist on a regular basis for professional cleaning and dental exams. No toothbrush will ever be able to remove all plaque and tartar that build up on the tooth surface. Only a trained dental professional using specialized equipment can do that.
Finding the right tools for at-home dental care, then using them every day and visiting your dentist twice a year, will help to ensure that you enjoy a lifetime of good oral health.