Is your manual toothbrush slacking on its one job – keeping your teeth and gums clean? It might be time to switch to an electric toothbrush.
Unlike your old manual, electric toothbrushes have rotating heads that work way harder to remove plaque and bacteria than your average manual toothbrush. They’re the real deal. So if you’ve just picked one up or are thinking about it, here’s our quick guide to using an electric toothbrush.
Can you use an electric toothbrush every day?
Absolutely! In fact, using an electric toothbrush daily can lead to better oral health. The oscillating head of an electric toothbrush removes more plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums than a manual toothbrush - and it’s extra helpful for those who struggle with maintaining a thorough brushing technique or have hard-to-reach areas in their mouth.
The NHS recommends that we brush our teeth twice a day, for two minutes each time. Using an electric toothbrush can make it easier to stick to this routine and ensure that you're brushing for the full two minutes. No slacking here!
Can you use an electric toothbrush with braces?
Yes, you can! In fact, using an electric toothbrush with braces can make it easier to clean your teeth properly - especially when it comes to those hard-to-reach areas. Just make sure to choose a brush head that's gentle enough for your braces, and to brush gently around the brackets and wires. You don’t want to damage your dental appliances.
If you’ve got braces, it might be helpful to also use a water flosser (like this Waterpik one) or interdental brush to make sure you’re getting a good clean.
Electric toothbrush tips and tricks
Now that you know that you can use an electric toothbrush every day and with braces, you probably don’t need any more convincing. But just in case, let's dive into some tips and tricks to make the most out of your electric toothbrush.
Choose the right brush head
Electric toothbrushes are a little like you - they’ve got loads of different ‘fits. Want pearly whites all the time? Choose a whitening brush head to tackle tough stains. Chasing that minty fresh feeling? Go for a deep clean brush. Or if your teeth are on the sensitive side, choose a sensitive brush head that’ll clean them gently.
Whichever brush head you choose, one fact remains the same - make sure to replace it every three to four months for good dental hygiene!
Don't press too hard
Unlike a manual toothbrush, you don't need to apply much pressure when using an electric toothbrush. Sit (or stand) back and let your snazzy toothbrush do the work for you. Pressing too hard with an electric toothbrush can damage your tooth enamel and gums, so it’s best to take it easy.
If you’re worried, the Oral B iO 6 comes with a smart pressure sensor that lights up red when you brush too hard, white when you brush too softly and green when its just right. Plus, it’s got five smart brushing modes (Daily Clean, Sensitive, Gum Care, Intense Clean and Whitening) and AI that recognises your brushing style and guides you to brush every tooth. Phew.
Use a timer
Many electric toothbrushes come with built-in timers to make sure you’re not skimping on those two minutes. If your electric toothbrush doesn't have a timer, set a timer on your phone or watch.
Clean your brush head regularly
Just like your manual one, it's essential to clean your electric toothbrush's brush head regularly. Rinse it thoroughly after each use and replace it every three to four months.
Hold the toothbrush correctly
Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards your gum line and move it gently in a circular motion.
What are the benefits of using an electric toothbrush?
Looking for a quick rundown? Here’s why making the switch to an electric toothbrush might be great for your oral health…
More effective cleaning - the oscillating or rotating head of an electric toothbrush can remove more plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums than a manual toothbrush.
Better for those with dexterity issues - if you have trouble gripping or moving a manual toothbrush, an electric toothbrush might make brushing a little easier.
Built-in timers - many electric toothbrushes come with timers to make sure you're brushing for the recommended two minutes. Some go even further - the Oral B Pro 3 3500 has a timer that reminds you to switch areas every 30 seconds. Serious business.
Fun to use - we all love a bit of tech - so a high-tech electric toothbrush like the Oral B Smart 4 4000N might make brushing more fun. It’s got three brushing modes, Bluetooth connectivity and a pressure sensor to make sure you’re not brushing too hard. Cool.
Found what you need?
If you have – great. If not – don’t worry. You can always chat to an expert in-store or via video call on ShopLive. They’ll be able to give you the lowdown on loads of great refrigeration appliances and accessories.