There are several benefits to brushing with an electric toothbrush, including cleaner teeth, less wrist pain for people with sensitive wrists, and encouragement to brush properly through built-in timers and pressure sensors. However, if you want to gain all of the benefits of brushing with an electric toothbrush, it is important that you use the device correctly. One of the major mistakes many people make when they use an electric toothbrush is to use large, fast sweeping motions, similar to the ones most people use with a manual toothbrush. However, it is better to hold the toothbrush for a second or more over each surface of each tooth and move it slowly through your mouth. Below are four benefits of using this slow brushing technique. 

It Will Be Easier to Brush Every Tooth 

One problem many people have with manual toothbrushes is not being able to reach every surface of all of their teeth. For example, it can be awkward to move a toothbrush when the it is far back in your mouth or when it's behind your front teeth. If you treat your electric toothbrush like a manual toothbrush, you will have the same problem spots in your mouth. However, because of the motion of the bristles, you do not actually have to move your electric toothbrush at all for it to clean effectively. You simply have to place it on the surface you want to clean. 

For the best results, you should slowly move your brush along the outside surface of the teeth in one quadrant, then back over the upper surface, and finally over the inside surface, pausing for about 1-2 seconds on each surface. Then, move on to another quadrant and continue this method until you have completed all four quadrants of your mouth. This way, you will know that you have brushed every surface in your mouth at the end of two minutes. 

You Will Be More Likely to Use the Right Angle 

Many people brush using a 90 degree angle. However, the correct angle to use is 45 degrees. This allows the bristles of your toothbrush to gently massage between your teeth and gums, getting rid of plaque and bacteria. If you are used to using a 90 degree angle, it will be easier to change your angle to the correct angle if you use a slow, steady movement as opposed to quick, broad strokes. This is because with less movement, you will have fewer things to think about, allowing you to concentrate on achieving the correct angle. 

You Will Have More Control Over the Amount of Pressure You Use 

Another common mistake people make while brushing is to use too much pressure. This can actually damage the enamel of your teeth by pressing debris into them. Additionally, it can lead to sore, bleeding gums. If you are moving your toothbrush slowly through your mouth, you will be able to remind yourself to use light, comfortable pressure and allow the motion of the bristles to do the work of cleaning your teeth. 

Your Wrists Will Feel Better 

Electric toothbrushes can be a good choice for people with carpal tunnel syndrome or other wrist weaknesses. This is because the bristles move independently of the wrist and less motion is required for a thorough brushing. However, if you quickly move an electric toothbrush over your teeth, similar to a manual toothbrush, you can exacerbate wrist problems due to the extra weight associated with the handles of electric toothbrushes. 

While electric toothbrushes can be beneficial for many individuals, you may want to consult your dentist or oral hygienist about proper usage and getting the most out of your electric toothbrush. For more information, contact a local dental clinic like Northwest Dental Services and Implant Center.