If you’re looking to get the most out of your daily oral hygiene, you might be considering a power toothbrush rather than a traditional manual toothbrush. The family dentistry professionals from Four Corners Dental Group in Anchorage, AK, have fielded a lot of questions over the years about the pros and cons of both manual and power brushes, so they've created this guide to help you make an informed decision:

• Which Type Of Toothbrush Is The Most Effective At Plaque Removal? An independent study conducted in 2005 found that power brushes with rotation oscillation action removed plaque better than manual brushes.
• Are All Power Toothbrushes Equally Effective? The short answer is no. Some off-brand power brushes don’t actually oscillate; they just vibrate and pulse. Vibration itself does nothing to actively reduce plaque, so if you invest in a power brush, make sure it rotates.
• How Are Power Toothbrushes Powered? There are two basic types of power toothbrushes. Rechargeable electric toothbrushes plug into the wall to charge while battery powered brushes get their power from AA batteries. It really comes down to personal preference, since the most important part of a power toothbrush is the motion it uses and not the power source.
• Is There Anyone Who Shouldn’t Use A Power Toothbrush? Young children and people with pre-existing dental issues or dental implants may be discouraged from using a power toothbrush. You should always ask your dentist what they think before changing up your oral care routine. They can give you tailored recommendations about power and manual toothbrush brands and discuss brushing techniques with you.

To schedule a dental appointment today, call Four Corners Dental Group at (907) 258-3384, and visit them online.