Ultrasonic tooth brush?

Question

Dear expert team,
our son (15) has constantly tenacious dental plaque.
The dentist recommended an electirc ultrasonic toothbrush to him.
Are there any concerns about this, can one eventually use it with boiled or sterile water?
Many thanks in advance for your advice.

Answer

Dear parents,
electric toothbrushes (also ultrasonic toothbrushes) can be an effective supplementation of the manual cleaning of the teeth; generally superior or "better" are they not. The manufacturer always love to state this, however as a consequence, we would not be able in the future, to perform the cultural technique of cleaning the teeth correctly anymore if an electric toothbrush is recommended always to all kids and teens.
However, just in the case of tenacious dental plaque and fixed orthodontal devices, these brushes can be very helpful. Especially ultrasonic toothbrushes have an intensive cleaning effect. One can distinguish them with the word "sonic" that is used in the product name. These devices have no water supply container (in contrast to oral douches), that could bear germs; the usage of sterile or boiled water is therefore not necessary.
Caution: ultrasonic toothbrushes need time to accustom, as the effect of the ultrasound causes an intensive vibration ("tickeling").
Best regards,
Michael Sies

24.02.2014