Smile! Healthy teeth, gums with an ultrasonic brush Published Aug. 3, 2009 By Airman 1st Class David Harvey 87th Dental Squadron JOINT BASE McGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST -- There are several benefits from using ultrasonic toothbrushes instead of manual toothbrushes. While a manual toothbrush can be just as effective as an electric one, it can also be ineffective if an improper brushing technique is used. To be effective, you need to spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth. In addition, you need to exercise the correct technique. That technique is called the "modified bass brushing technique." According to the American Dental Association, bass brushing "directs the filaments apically (up for maxillary, down for mandibular teeth). Even though the brush placement calls for directing the filaments at a 45-degree angle, it is usually easier and safer for the patient to first place the brush parallel with the long axis of the tooth. From that position, the brush can be turned slightly and brought down to the gingival margin to the 45-degree angle." That may feel uncomfortable in the beginning; that is the reason people usually don't brush their teeth the right way. With high levels of stress and lack of personal time in today's modern world, oral hygiene becomes irregular all too often. Nevertheless, with motivation and continuous effort, manual tooth brushing can be just as effective as ultrasonic care. Below are the benefits of using an electric toothbrush, according to ADA: The ultrasonic tooth brush is clinically proven to remove significantly more plaque than a manual toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes are clinically proven to reduce gingivitis and improve overall gum health. The dynamic ultrasonic technology is proven to remove extrinsic (coffee, tea, and tobacco) stains and also helps naturally whiten teeth by up to 2.5 shades in two weeks. Ultrasonic brushing is demonstrated to be safe and gentle for those with sensitive teeth and gums. In vitro studies prove that ultrasonic brushes are safe and gentle on veneers, implants and other restorative materials. Regular brushing with an ultrasonic toothbrush is proven to help shrink periodontal pockets. In addition, both manual and ultrasonic brushing require flossing your teeth daily since contacting teeth surfaces cannot be sufficiently cleaned with only a toothbrush. You are probably wondering about the price. The price for an ultrasonic toothbrush can range from $50 to $100. It is a little pricey in comparison to a regular toothbrush, but it is a good investment, especially in the case of decreased manual dexterity. Look at it like this: you can't put a price on a healthy smile. For more information, visit www.smilox.com, www.sonicare.com, or www.ada.org.