What is a sonic toothbrush?
The first electric toothbrushes, known as oscillating-rotating brushes, brought a minor revolution in tooth cleaning. They operated by rapidly rotating the brush head around its own axis and became popular among more demanding, as well as lazier, users.
However, it later became apparent that even with gentle programs at low speeds, these brushes could be aggressive towards soft tissues and could cause gum recession and exposed tooth necks. The result is increased tooth sensitivity.
Currently, this type of electric toothbrush is being phased out, and its place is being taken by sonic toothbrushes, which, based on long-term studies, do not cause gum recession because they operate on a different principle.
How does a sonic toothbrush work?
Unlike oscillating-rotating brushes, sonic toothbrushes have an elongated brush head shape, similar to a classic manual toothbrush; the head itself does not rotate. Only the bristles move, vibrated by ultrasound, which causes these filaments to vibrate. The brush head is placed on the tooth surface, and we can also move it slightly. The movement of the filaments then breaks down plaque – the biofilm. For comparison, with a manual toothbrush, we can achieve 300-500 strokes per minute, while a sonic toothbrush can produce 8,000-30,000 strokes per minute.
However, it is important to note that the bristles of no toothbrush can reach interdental spaces. Therefore, it is crucial to also use an interdental brush to thoroughly clean the entire tooth surface.
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Who is a sonic toothbrush suitable for?
This toothbrush can be helpful for people who are less manually dexterous for various reasons. This also includes patients with orthodontic appliances (braces), as well as regular users and children. For children, supervision during brushing is necessary; generally, an adult should check how a child brushes their teeth until they are 10-12 years old.
In all cases, a sonic toothbrush simplifies and makes tooth cleaning more effective. It is also possible to connect the toothbrush to a mobile application, which can help verify its effectiveness and even serve as a motivation.
How to choose a sonic toothbrush?
Today, a wide variety of types and brands are available. One should consider the customizable programs, pressure sensor, battery life, and compatibility of replacement heads. And, of course, the price. There isn't just one 'right' sonic toothbrush; it depends on personal preferences.
Standard versus Sonic Toothbrush
A sonic toothbrush can be considered a suitable alternative to a classic manual toothbrush. If a patient knows how to properly brush their teeth and use the brush, both types are equally effective. The choice of toothbrush depends on personal preference.
You can also learn the correct brushing technique during an instruction session, where our professional hygienists will show and explain everything to you.
Dentist
I completed my dental medicine studies in 2020 at the Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava. During my studies, I completed several internships at modern clinics in Slovakia and participated in… Read more
