POWERED VERSUS MANUAL TOOTHBRUSHES Q: Which is better, a powered or a manual toothbrush? A: One has no inherent advantage over the other, though circumstances might make one preferable. For instance, a person hampered by a physical challenge like arthritis that limits dexterity, might find a powered brush easier to use. The American Dental Association draws no distinction between the two types. The more critical factor is how thoroughly and effectively you brush your teeth. Another consideration is that it might be easier to get a child established in a healthy regimen of brushing by letting him or her experiment, under your supervision, of course, with a gadget like a powered brush. Whichever type you choose, the technique for brushing is essentially the same. You want to make sure you hit the back and front of each tooth. Some experts recommend thinking of the mouth in terms of quadrants - two on the top and two on the bottom - and concentrating on one quadrant at a time. Also remember that brushing too hard or too long can actually damage the sensitive tissue of the gums. The ADA also recommends that you replace your brush every three to four months. For one thing, frayed bristles don't clean teeth as well, and they can irritate gum tissue. Ask your dentist or hygienist for advice on the best tools for keeping your teeth clean. Presented as a service to the community by Dr. Barbara Webster 1121 Warren Ave., Suite 130, Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-663-0554 SM-CL2082837 POWERED VERSUS MANUAL TOOTHBRUSHES Q : Which is better , a powered or a manual toothbrush ? A : One has no inherent advantage over the other , though circumstances might make one preferable . For instance , a person hampered by a physical challenge like arthritis that limits dexterity , might find a powered brush easier to use . The American Dental Association draws no distinction between the two types . The more critical factor is how thoroughly and effectively you brush your teeth . Another consideration is that it might be easier to get a child established in a healthy regimen of brushing by letting him or her experiment , under your supervision , of course , with a gadget like a powered brush . Whichever type you choose , the technique for brushing is essentially the same . You want to make sure you hit the back and front of each tooth . Some experts recommend thinking of the mouth in terms of quadrants - two on the top and two on the bottom - and concentrating on one quadrant at a time . Also remember that brushing too hard or too long can actually damage the sensitive tissue of the gums . The ADA also recommends that you replace your brush every three to four months . For one thing , frayed bristles don't clean teeth as well , and they can irritate gum tissue . Ask your dentist or hygienist for advice on the best tools for keeping your teeth clean . Presented as a service to the community by Dr. Barbara Webster 1121 Warren Ave. , Suite 130 , Downers Grove , IL 60515 630-663-0554 SM - CL2082837