Do You Know About Electric Toothbrush? The critical difference between modern products used for hygienic care of the oral cavity is the effectiveness of their use. Even a child can brush his teeth using special sonic and mechanical nozzles, and the result is much better. Various bristles of different characteristics help minimize the likelihood of damage to sensitive gums, manufacturing materials do not cause an allergic reaction, and auxiliary “smart” options significantly increase the range of functional tasks to be solved. How to choose the right electric toothbrushes for adults and children, which types are better to buy for brushing your teeth, and how do the proposed models differ from each other?
General view
The device, designed to perform standard hygiene procedures, is powered by a removable battery or replaceable battery packs. Getting rid of soft plaque and food debris stuck in the interdental space is ensured by the directional action of moving bristles moving along the radius or in a reciprocating plane. The latest modifications implement the concept of processing with sound or ultrasound, guaranteeing the most effective cleaning with every use.
How to choose an electric brush: pros and cons
Speaking about the positive aspects of using electric brushes, they traditionally highlight the saving of time (two minutes are enough) and the thoroughness of interaction with the enamel coating of the elements of the dentition. As with any other dental care, you must first consult with a qualified doctor and undergo a diagnosis that excludes possible contraindications and determines the basic recommendations for choice.
The main advantages and disadvantages can be presented in the form of the following table:
Pros
- Wide range and affordable prices
- Built-in functionality: timer, pressure sensor, and other useful options
- Possibility to use interchangeable nozzles
Minuses
- The purchase price is still higher than in the case of conventional options
- Restrictions on use in diagnosed pathologies
- The need for regular recharging or battery replacement
What are electric toothbrushes?
There are several varieties, the main differentiating criteria for which are the method of exposure and the technique of application. Consider the most popular categories.
Mechanical
The classic version, the configuration of which provides for the presence in the handle of an electronic board that controls the movements of the head. The mechanism performs up to several thousand revolutions per second, which makes the product effective in terms of removing plaque and food particles, but does not guarantee the perfect treatment of hard-to-reach areas and deep deposits.
Sound
They generate oscillations in the frequency range from 100 to 60,000 Hz due to the use of an electromagnetic element, the operation of which is accompanied by a characteristic buzzing. The length of the bristles is designed for the simultaneous cleaning of two or three units of dentition. When switching to such models, it is not required to learn new techniques, however, the productivity of hygienic care does not increase too significantly.
Ultrasonic
In this case, the generator is a piezo crystalline element that provides a frequency above 1 MHz. Ultrasound is much more effective in terms of cleaning teeth, coping not only with soft plaque but also with stony deposits. The applied efforts are minimal by the recommended technique, the pile should barely touch the surface of the enamel. However, despite the positive results, the choice in favor of electric toothbrushes of this type is quite rare – due to the cost, the need to additionally purchase special gel-based toothpaste, and the unusually silent and motionless operation, which confuses many patients.
Rotary
Models with a rotating cylindrical head differ in application technique: each tooth must be treated separately, which leads to an increase in the time spent on daily hygiene procedures. However, the costs are offset by higher efficiency, including high-quality treatment of interdental areas and periodontal pockets, potentially serving as places of increased accumulation of pathogenic bacteria.
3D
The integration of an auxiliary electromagnet makes it possible to combine reciprocating motion and pulsating vibrations, thanks to which cleaning is carried out in a three-dimensional plane. Such devices are recommended for patients undergoing a course of correction using orthodontic systems.
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Choosing an electric toothbrush according to the parameters and indications
The selection criteria traditionally include not only the configuration but also related design features that also affect the final decision. Consider the main characteristics that you should pay attention to.
Travel speed
The intensity of vibration or rotation of the cleaning head determines whether the device can be used by the owner of fillings, artificial crowns, dentures, or milk teeth. Before you buy your favorite model, you should consult with a specialist. By making an appointment at one of the Dentika dental centers, you will be able to undergo in-depth diagnostics, the results of which will form recommendations for the use of certain modifications of electric toothbrushes.
Handle and pile
The length and diameter of the case depend on the type of battery used, but in general, they are selected based on ergonomics. The presence of rubber inserts on the handle reduces the likelihood of slipping during cleaning, which is very convenient for both adults and children. As for the bristles, the key factor here is the stiffness of synthetic fibers, the choice in favor of which is determined by the ease of disinfection and affordable cost:
Degree
- Soft
- Medium
- Rigid
In what cases is it suitable
- With a weakened dentin structure, fragile enamel, and increased sensitivity of gum tissues
- Universal option
- With appropriate medical advice
Materials used
The basis for the manufacture is a variety of polymers that do not cause an allergic reaction and are characterized by sufficient strength for operation with high-frequency vibrations. Natural bristles are also found but are only recommended in cases where patients have been diagnosed with an allergy to synthetics.
Nutrition
Each of the options – both batteries and accumulators – is characterized by certain advantages and disadvantages. In the first case, the brush itself often turns out to be cheaper, and the entire design as a whole takes up much less free space on the shelf since it does not provide a stand or charger unit. The downside is that sooner or later the elements will have to be changed, and the owners of electric brushes without a display and indicator will find out about the onset of this inevitable moment, as a rule, at the most inopportune time. Battery models, in turn, require regular recharging, as well as special conditions for storing the station – with access to a free outlet.
Electric Toothbrush: Cleaning modes
The option to adjust the frequency of oscillation and the amplitude of the movements made makes it possible to use the brush in various cycles, each of which corresponds to the characteristics necessary for solving certain dental problems. Among the modifications encountered, the most common are:
- Delicate processing. It provides for the minimum intensity of exposure recommended for patients of the younger age group, as well as in the case of diagnosing hypersensitivity of the gingival tissues and elements of the dentition – to prevent possible irritation, bleeding, and pain.
- Whitening mode. Standard mechanics, the distinguishing feature of which is the increased processing time and switching to the enamel polishing algorithm at the final stage. It is used in combination with special nozzles that provide the desired result with minimal effort.
- Massage care. It is indicated for patients suffering from regular inflammation in the area where the gums adhere to the teeth. The low frequency of oscillations generated by the drive provides gentle massaging of tissues, stimulating blood circulation and creating a preventive effect that prevents the development of pathologies.
- Deep cleaning. Professional mode with maximum power and duration, used only with the appropriate medical advice.
Additional nozzles of Electric Toothbrush
One advantage to consider when deciding which type of electric toothbrush to choose for your teeth is the ability to replace the brush heads you use. Thus, it is enough to buy one set for the whole family, with individual elements for each adult and child. Marking rings or inserts are used for identification.
Structural devices are selected based on specific needs. So, for children, it is preferable to take models of a smaller size with soft bristles, corresponding to the current stage of formation of the dentoalveolar apparatus. Universal nozzles have a more complex configuration and division of the pile into several segments, allowing you to use the device to clean enamel and remove plaque, whiten treatments, or massage gum.
In combination with special pastes, polishing efficiency increases, and an insert for processing interdental spaces and spaces under corrective orthodontic systems (brackets, expansion arcs, etc.) increase the range of functional applications. With increased sensitivity, special delicacy is required, which determines the choice in favour of soft and thin bristles. In addition, the package may include the installation of additional brushes that massage the gum tissue and the surface of the tongue, as well as provide high-quality removal of stony deposits.
Another factor is the presence of an indicator indicating the degree of wear of the product. The outer part of the villi is covered with a hypoallergenic pigment, which gradually fades with use. If the area has become noticeably pale or has changed its original color, it is time to make a scheduled replacement of the nozzle.
“Smart” features
Speaking about which electric toothbrush is better and how to choose the right option that meets individual dental indications, it is also worth mentioning modern models that use microprocessors, sensors, and control systems connected to mobile devices. New technologies guarantee maximum control over the quality of brushing your teeth. The integration of the gaming component helps to increase the motivation of children (and adults too) to perform hygiene procedures regularly – for example, some applications provide achievements for daily achievements, a function for comparing results with other households and owners of brushes of the same brand, as well as other entertainment options.
Built-in timer
In the simplest versions, the device notifies you when a certain period has passed – usually one to two minutes from the moment you start using it. More complex configurations are combined with specific modes and different tones, reminding you to move on to the next segment of the dentition. The most technologically advanced models are equipped with position sensors that monitor the correct placement of the nozzle so that each crown is processed with the utmost care.
Pressure indicator
Excessive force applied during the cleaning process can damage the enamel and gums. Insufficient exposure, on the contrary, reduces the effectiveness of removing plaque and stony deposits. The built-in module independently determines the optimal load, notifying of the need to reduce the oscillation frequency or reduce pressure.
Availability of the display
A small screen built into the body of the pen is designed to display informational messages – for example, about the current battery level, the selected mode, pairing with a tablet or smartphone, and even about the status of individual elements of the dentition.
Stand
The accessory block makes storage practical and convenient, eliminating the possibility of bristle contact with the surface of the shelf or other objects. In some modifications, the design also serves as a charger, which greatly simplifies regular maintenance. The best option is contactless charging, which does not require waterproofing and guarantees the maintenance of the working condition of the device.
Travel case
Regular trips are not a reason to refuse high-quality hygienic oral care, so a special box can be considered a prerequisite for completing. Some manufacturers equip the box with an additional battery or even turn it into a kind of power bank that allows you to charge not only the brush but also other mobile devices connected via a standard USB port.
What should be the electric brush for children?
In childhood, teeth and gums are especially sensitive to the negative effects of pathogenic bacteria and microbes and at the same time, remain vulnerable to strong mechanical stress. The best option would be separate models with soft bristles, operating in a gentle mode with a minimum frequency and intensity of vibrations.
Additional Recommendations on Electric Toothbrush
When choosing the appropriate option, it is worth focusing on both price and functional characteristics that determine how convenient and efficient future operation will be. The variety of tips significantly expands the number of available work formats, which helps achieve the desired result – a healthy and attractive smile. For travelers, the presence of a compact case and energy-intensive batteries is important, and for children – entertaining “smart” options make the care procedure more interesting. For more advice on how to choose an electric toothbrush for an adult or a child, choose the right accessories, polish and whitening pastes, as well as other accessories, please get in touch with the specialists of Dentika dental centers.