Using an electric toothbrush is blamed for bleeding gums, eroded enamel and even fillings falling out.

Evidence produced by the Cochrane Oral Health Group shows when using a powered toothbrush for one month plaque was by reduce by 11% and by 21% after three months of use compared with when using a manual toothbrush. Gingivitis was also reduce by 6% after one month and reduce by 11% reduction after using an electric toothbrush three months.

Reported side effects were localised and only temporary.

4 Steps to benefit from using an electric toothbrush correctly and avoid damage to your teeth.

1. Use your electric toothbrush correctly.
2. • Select the Daily clean mode for daily brushing.
   • Wet brush and apply toothpaste.
   • Put the brush against your teeth before switching to avoid splashes.
   • If you are using the Oral B oscillating-rotating brush head guide the brush slowly from tooth to tooth. Spend a few seconds per tooth.
   • If you are using an Oral B Trizone brush place the bristles against the teeth with a slight angle and brush back and forwards like you will do with a manual toothbrush.
   • You might experience slight bleeding of your gums during the first few days. If thebleeding continues after 2 weeks visit your dentist.
   • Use the sensitive mode if you have sensitive teeth or gums.

3. Let the brush do all the work.

4. Don’t put too much pressure. A red light will warn you if you apply too much pressure.

Evidence suggests that the forces used with power toothbrushes are in the 80 to190 g/f range, compared to forces in excess of 250 g/f with manual brushes. The findings from these studies suggest that power toothbrushes are less likely to cause dental and gingival abrasion.

4.Avoid brushing your teeth for at least 30 minutes ifyou've consumed any acidic food or drink.