Problems with Electric Toothbrushes
Battery-powered or electric toothbrushes are becoming increasingly popular. They can clean your teeth effectively and leave you feeling back-from-the-dentist fresh. Children and those with limited dexterity often benefit most from powered toothbrushes, which allow them to brush more thoroughly with less physical exertion. However, even electric toothbrushes are not without their flaws. Here's what you need to know before your next professional dental cleaning.
If you use an electric or battery-powered toothbrush, regularly changing the heads is essential to maintaining good dental health. Bristles begin to wear down, and they can scratch or wear away the enamel on your teeth, making them more prone to dental diseases. Brush heads should be changed every three months, when they show signs of wear or after the user has recovered from an illness.
In some cases, electric toothbrushes may also pose a safety hazard. Bristles and other parts of the brush head have broken off and created choking and other health hazards. Some toothbrushes have overheated, which can lead to battery burns. Regularly replacing your brush head, monitoring your child's tooth brushing and inspecting the brush before each use can reduce your risk.
Brushing after meals and flossing at least once a day will remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and along your gumline. Contact Dr. Bijan Afar DDS, Los Angeles dentist, today to schedule your next checkup or to learn more about how to keep your teeth and gums healthy.