Most of the time, yes. Even the best electric toothbrushes can’t reach the plaque between your teeth. And checking to see if you have gum inflammation (which leads to periodontal disease) is one of the most important checks we do…and you likely won’t have gum inflammation if you are brushing and flossing.
Frequently Asked Questions
A healthy mouth leads to a healthy body. Have questions? We have answers.
1. General Dentistry Questions
First, you should be changing your toothbrush every three months or so (as well as after you get sick), depending on how frayed the bristles are. But for regular cleaning tips, you can leave your brush head in antibacterial mouthwash or hydrogen peroxide once a week. Just remember to rinse it off thoroughly before using it!
Short answer: no; it’s not about the toothbrush, but the brusher. Either does an equally good job. We do recommend electric toothbrushes if you have arthritis in your hands though.
Fluoride fights cavities. Not to get into the ethics of adding fluoride to water, but fluoride is quite safe; that being said, you can have too much of a good thing. That’s why you need to watch your kids when they start using fluoride toothpaste and make sure they don’t swallow it but spit it out.
2. For the Kiddos
As soon as they have one, just make sure to get non-flouride toothpaste and a soft brush (like this). Getting them started on the habit early will make a significant difference in the future.
You’re not alone on this one! Making a game out of it, singing a toothbrushing song, giving them a reward afterwards, whatever it takes to develop good dental habits…as long as they don’t get sugary treats as their reward.
3. Teeth Whitening
Typically, the results last for six months to two years, but a lot depends on your habits: if you drink a lot of coffee and red wine (as well as smoke regularly) the lifespan of your whitening will be shorter. We’ve seen patients that have not needed another treatment for a decade!
Some patients do get increased sensitivity after a treatment, but it only lasts for a day or two. After that, their sensitivity will go back to the way it was.
None of our treatments will damage your enamel. That being said, many tooth whitening toothpastes out there are abrasive, and those will damage your enamel (and could permanently make your teeth more sensitive).
