How to Use an Electric Toothbrush The Right Way

Are you having difficulty getting your daily brushing routine down? Changing to an electric toothbrush can be a great way to take your oral hygiene to the next level - plus it has some other health advantages too.

Electric toothbrushes are designed to help brush teeth more effectively and efficiently. They come with unique features that can remove plaque, freshen breath, and even give users feedback on their brushing technique. 

Our team of experts got this guide to walk step by step on how to use an electric toothbrush for the best possible results.

How To Use Your Electric Toothbrush

Using an electric toothbrush can greatly improve your oral hygiene routine, providing more effective cleaning and efficiently removing plaque compared to traditional manual brushing. 

To make the most of your electric toothbrush, follow these steps and tips for a thorough and efficient oral care routine.

• Select the Right Brush Head: Most electric toothbrushes come with interchangeable brush heads. Choose a brush head that suits your specific dental needs. Options include standard, sensitive, gum care, and orthodontic brush heads. The right brush head will ensure optimal cleaning and prevent any discomfort during brushing.
  
  
• Apply Toothpaste: Apply a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste to the bristles of your electric toothbrush. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and protect against cavities. For kids, be sure to apply a children’s toothpaste. 
  
  
• Wet the Brush Head: Before starting, dampen the brush head slightly to help the toothpaste foam and spread evenly during brushing.
  
  
• Position the Brush: Hold the electric toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum line. The bristles should be in contact with both your teeth and gums.
  
  
• Turn On the Toothbrush: Activate the electric toothbrush and start with the front teeth on the upper or lower arch. Use gentle circular or back-and-forth motions, allowing the brush to do the work. Avoid excessive pressure, as it may harm your gums.
  
  
• Time Your Brushing: Brush for a minimum of two minutes to ensure thorough cleaning of your entire mouth. Some electric toothbrushes have built-in timers that signal when the recommended brushing time is complete.
  
  
• Divide Your Mouth Into Sections: Divide your mouth into four quadrants: upper right, upper left, lower right, and lower left. Spend 30 seconds on each quadrant to ensure even coverage and effective cleaning.
  
  
• Don't Forget Your Tongue and Roof of the Mouth: After brushing your teeth, use the electric toothbrush to clean your tongue and the roof of your mouth. This helps eliminate bacteria and freshens your breath.
  
  
• Rinse Your Mouth: Once you've completed brushing, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water to remove any remaining toothpaste and debris.
  
  
• Clean and Store Your Electric Toothbrush: Rinse the brush head under running water to remove toothpaste residue. Shake off excess water and store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow it to air dry. Regularly replace the brush head as recommended by the manufacturer.

How Many Times A Day Should You Use An Electric Toothbrush?

Using an electric toothbrush is a great way to maintain good oral hygiene and keep your teeth clean and healthy. The recommended frequency for using an electric toothbrush is the same as that for a manual toothbrush - twice a day. Dentists and oral health professionals recommend brushing your teeth for two minutes each time, once in the morning and once before bedtime.

Brushing twice a day with an electric toothbrush helps to remove food particles, bacteria, and plaque that accumulate throughout the day. It also helps prevent the formation of cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues.

Electric vs Manual Toothbrushes

Electric and manual toothbrushes have their advantages and drawbacks.
Here are a few to highlight the electric toothbrush health and oral benefits: 

• Cleaning Efficiency: Electric toothbrushes are generally more effective at cleaning teeth compared to manual toothbrushes. Their oscillating, rotating, or sonic motions help remove plaque and debris more efficiently. Manual toothbrushes rely on the user's brushing technique and manual dexterity, which may not always result in consistent and thorough cleaning.
  
  
• Built-in Timers: Many electric toothbrushes come with built-in timers that ensure you brush for the recommended two minutes, promoting better oral hygiene habits. Manual toothbrushes do not have timers, so users need to time their brushing manually.
  
  
• Pressure Sensors: Some electric toothbrushes are equipped with pressure sensors that alert users when they are applying too much force, preventing damage to teeth and gums. Manual toothbrushes do not have pressure sensors.
  
  
• Ease of Use: Electric toothbrushes require minimal effort to use, making them a preferred choice for people with limited dexterity or mobility issues. Manual toothbrushes are easy to use as well, but they rely on the user's manual brushing technique.
  
  
• Cost: Electric toothbrushes can be more expensive upfront, but they usually come with rechargeable batteries and replaceable brush heads, making them cost-effective in the long run.
  
  
• Portability: Electric toothbrushes are bulkier and require charging, making them less convenient for travel unless they have long-lasting batteries or travel cases.
  
  
• Gum Sensitivity: Some electric toothbrushes offer settings for sensitive gums, reducing the risk of gum irritation. People with sensitive gums need to be cautious and select a soft-bristled manual toothbrush to avoid gum irritation.
  
  
• Customization Options: Some electric toothbrush models offer various brushing modes, such as whitening, gum care, or tongue cleaning, allowing users to customize their brushing experience. Manual toothbrushes have limited customization options, as they rely solely on manual brushing techniques.

Toothbrushing Tip & Tricks

A few tips and tricks for optimal results:

• Brush at least twice a day, preferably after meals, to maintain oral health.
• Use a light hand to prevent gum irritation and enamel wear.
• If you have sensitive teeth or gums, opt for a brush head designed for sensitivity.
• Consider using a toothbrush with pressure sensors to alert you if you're brushing too hard.
• To get used to the sensation, start with lower-intensity settings and gradually increase if needed.
• If you have braces or dental appliances, look for specialized brush heads designed for these situations.
• Ensure your electric toothbrush is charged and ready for use, especially when traveling or away from home.