Brushing your teeth is an important step in maintaining a healthy mouth. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day makes sure that excess bacteria does not form on your teeth. This is important because bacteria in your mouth slowly eat away at the surfaces of teeth. However, brushing can be difficult for people who have arthritis in their hands.
Typically, the proper brushing method includes keeping your brush at a 45 degree angle and gentle scrubbing. However, even gentle scrubbing can be painful for people suffering from arthritis. Though brushing may be more difficult for people with arthritis, it’s still an important daily routine. Many arthritis suffers mention to us they want an easier way to brush. Fortunately, there are options.
Choosing A Toothbrush When You Struggle With Arthritis
Since holding small objects can be painful for people with arthritis, choosing a brush with a larger handle can mitigate arthritic pain. If you have arthritis, there are many options of toothbrush with an increased handle size just for this reason. The increased handle size will make holding the brush easier and more comfortable.
The second thing you may want to consider if you have arthritis is an electric toothbrush. Part of the reason arthritis sufferers struggle with brushing is because of the pressure they must apply while brushing. To take this factor out, you can use an electric toothbrush. With an electric toothbrush, you won’t need to apply as much pressure, which will make brushing more comfortable. You may even get a better clean with an electric brush!
Finally, you will want to make sure that the American Dental Association approves of your new brush. The easiest way to do this is to look at the packaging. You’ll be able to see an “ADA” symbol somewhere on the box if it’s approved.
Of course, if you have questions about purchasing a new toothbrush, you can always call us (470) 387-0500 and we’d be happy to let you know if a toothbrush is right for you.