As a dental hygienist, patients are often asking me about what types of products they should be using at home. I always try to cater my recommendations to the individual patient and their oral condition. However, when it comes to toothbrushes, I do take a ‘one size fits all’ approach. I almost always recommend a Sonicare electric toothbrush. Personally, I have used a Sonicare for about seven years and feel strongly it is beneficial for everyone.
A Sonicare toothbrush uses sonic technology to deliver over 31,000 strokes/min while brushing. A benefit of this technology is that it drives fluid between the teeth giving you more of an in-between clean than a manual toothbrush. All models that I am familiar with are also equipped with a quad-pacer. The quad-pacer will give you a pause or a beep every 30 seconds to indicate it’s time to move from one quad to the next. This feature is my personal favorite because it helps you slow down your brushing to the recommended two minutes and NO one area is neglected. The timer is especially helpful for kids who need help remembering how long they should be brushing. Another design feature that works great for kids and anyone with dexterity issues is the size of the toothbrush handle. A wider base on an electric toothbrush is much easier to grip and maneuver. Many patients are concerned with using an electric toothbrushes on areas of gum recession. Gum recession is a common occurrence that usually is accompanied by sensitivity. Often, I get asked if an electric toothbrush would make the recession and sensitivity worse. To the contrary, it is safer to use an electric toothbrush than a manual because less pressure is required to clean the gumline. Studies have also shown a measureable decrease in bacteria when an electric toothbrush is used.
Three models of the Sonicare electric toothbrush are going to be available in our office now for purchasing. We are stocking the Sonicare Easyclean ( click to see review), the Sonicare Flexcare, and the Sonicare for Kids. We are excited to be offering these brushes for our patients at very competitive pricing ( aka when comparing apples to apples we priced them the same as Amazon… that’s right, we aren’t looking to really make $ on these BUT to help guide patients towards something we all have come to love) with mail-in rebates and two-year warranties available on all models. If you have any questions, call the office or ask at your next appointment and we will be glad to answer them for you.
Happy brushing!!!
Kristy