Electric Toothbrushes

Electric toothbrushes are highly recommended by dentists to ensure optimal oral health. Because an electric toothbrush is generally more efficient and effective than a manual toothbrush, it tends to remove more plaque from the teeth. In addition, a person has to worry less about effective tooth brushing technique when using an electric toothbrush.

Buying an electric toothbrush can be a tricky operation nowadays, with a great deal of variety on the market. One of the options that is available for both manual and electric toothbrushes is the brush head size. The head size of an electric toothbrush varies between different models and brands, but most electric toothbrushes offer at least two sizes. The smaller brush size is more appropriate for people with smaller mouths in general, as well as those with braces. If more than one person will be using the electric toothbrush, it can be helpful to have different brush sizes, so that each person knows exactly which brush head is theirs.

As with manual toothbrushes, brush heads for electric toothbrushes must be replaced. When buying an electric toothbrush, remember to replace the brush head every three to six months, and to weigh the cost of the brush heads as well as the different models of toothbrush. Make sure the brush head replacements are easily available — you do not want to purchase a costly electric toothbrush only to find that the replacement brushes are not available in your area or are much more expensive than you had previously thought.

The charger for the electric toothbrush may be compact, to take up less space and travel well, or it may be larger and actually store brush heads used by other family members. Some electric toothbrushes offer both options, and include a carrying case for traveling. If you do not wish to charge your toothbrush every night, make sure that you buy an electric toothbrush with an indicator gauge showing when it needs to be charged.

Electric toothbrushes often have timers built into them — either which measure the total time that should be spent brushing, or divide the time into four, for each quadrant of the mouth. The quadrant timers sound every thirty seconds, indicating that it is time to move to another quadrant of your mouth. The actual working of the toothbrush may vary from a pulsing motion, a rotary motion, or an ultrasonic movement. Ask your dentist which is best for you, since different people have different brushing needs. Your dentist can also advise you on the power setting, although most people are advised to use the high setting once their gums are used to an electric toothbrush.

Finally, when buying an electric toothbrush, check for warranties. Like any other piece of electronic equipment, an electric toothbrush can fail before it should. Keep all receipts and warranty information for the duration of the warranty.