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Hi Dr. Hall
On your page about how to remove a post in a tooth you mention that an ultrasonic tip can be used to help remove a post. I have a crown on a post and want to use an electric toothbrush. Is there any chance that an electric toothbrush can cause the crown falling off or post loosen up due to the vibrations?
– Anna
Anna,
Many of today’s electric toothbrushes use sonic vibrations through the bristles to help loosen plaque. I don’t believe these are strong enough to loosen anything that is cemented in your mouth.
The ultrasonic tip that a dentist would use to help remove a dental post cemented in a tooth would be the tip of an ultrasonic scaler—a powerful tool used by dental hygienists to help clean teeth. The tip is rigid and imparts the full strength of the ultrasonic vibrations to whatever it touches. When used to remove a post, it has to be pressed firmly on the post for an extended period of time.
By contrast, the vibrations of a sonic or ultrasonic toothbrush are transmitted through the soft bristles and thus are very gentle.
– Dr. Hall
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About David A. Hall
Dr. David A. Hall was one of the first 40 accredited cosmetic dentists in the world. He practiced cosmetic dentistry in Iowa, and in 1990 earned his accreditation with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He is now president of Infinity Dental Web, a company in Mesa, Arizona that does advanced internet marketing for dentists.
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