Good dental hygiene may be challenging for orthodontic patients who wear braces. This is because food gets trapped under the archwires and around the brackets easily. This leads to the accumulation of plaques which are responsible for tooth decay and other oral diseases. To prevent this, dentists recommend the use of an ideal toothbrush.
But in choosing the right toothbrush, many wonder whether an electric brush is the right choice or if the manual is all that is needed. There is no right or wrong answer in choosing the best toothbrush for braces —it’s just a matter of preference.
Not sure of whether to use a manual or electric toothbrush? The following tips will help you make the right decision.
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Advantages of Manual toothbrushes
Manual toothbrushes are popular; this is because they are easy to use. Also, manual toothbrushes are cheaper than most electric toothbrushes. Other benefits of manual toothbrush include:
- They are easily accessible
- Have limitless variation
- Offer better control
- Cheap
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Curaprox 5460 Ultrasoft Toothbrush, 3 Pack |
$16.97
$13.75 |
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Dr. Collins Perio Toothbrush, (colors vary) 3 Count (Pack of 1) |
$8.99 |
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Isshah Biodegradable Eco-Friendly Natural Bamboo Charcoal Toothbrushes, FSC Certified and PETA... |
$11.99
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Advantages of Electric Toothbrushes
Electric toothbrushes are also ideal, especially for those whose mobility is limited. Besides, electric toothbrushes are designed to reach hidden areas and corners. Research by the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics (AJO-DO) shows that electric toothbrushes promote more dental hygiene for those who wear braces. The best models can remove more plaque than a manual toothbrush. This will make sure you have white teeth while wearing braces.
Other benefits of electric toothbrushes include:
- Electric toothbrushes have technological features for easy and seamless use
- They offer customized cleaning modes
- Electric toothbrushes provide more effective cleaning
How to Brush with Braces
It’s easy to brush teeth without braces, but care must be taken when brushing with braces. This is because braces are fragile—applying force will only damage the braces and your gum or teeth. Here is how to brush with braces:
- Brush teeth delicately: Place toothbrush below the brackets facing upwards and move the brush back and forth. Next, move the brush above the brackets facing downwards and move the toothbrush from right to left until you have brushed all sides of the teeth.
- Brush teeth with a proxy brush: You can purchase one from the closest drug store to you or ask your orthodontist. Insert the toothbrush under the archwire located between the bands and brackets. The proxy brush helps access hard-to-reach areas that a regular toothbrush can’t reach.
Factors to Consider
Both manual and electric toothbrushes will get the job done. However, when not used properly, manual toothbrushes can cause harm. To avoid this, many experts recommend the use of an electric toothbrush.
Also, many people do not use the manual toothbrush in brushing their teeth long and well enough to reap its benefits. According to the American Dental Association, the teeth should be brushed for a minimum of two minutes twice daily to get the best result.
People who wear braces and wish to use manual toothbrushes must consider these factors if they are to benefit from them.
Final Thought
Both manual and electric toothbrushes are ideal for use as they are both effectively remove oral plaque responsible for diseases and tooth decay. However, to achieve the desired result, each model must be used as recommended.
Dr Michael Jones is the proud founder of The Toothbrush Expert. He has been working as a dentist for 21 years now. Besides his work as a dentist, Michael wants to help people to find the right dental products. His goal is to provide everyone with honest expert reviews on all kinds of dental care products.
