🧭 Table of Contents
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What is gum recession?
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Does an electric toothbrush cause gum recession?
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Myth or reality: the truth about the electric toothbrush
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When the electric toothbrush becomes a risk
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The real benefits of the electric toothbrush for gums
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How to properly use your electric toothbrush without harming your gums
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1️⃣ Choose the right brush head
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2️⃣ Adopt the correct brushing technique
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3️⃣ Use the right hygiene supplements
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4️⃣ Maintain and replace your equipment
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When to see a dentist for gum recession
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Prevention and essential actions for healthy gums
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FAQ: the most frequently asked questions
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Conclusion: adopt the right habits for a healthy smile
🦷 What is gum recession?
Gum recession (or gingival recession) is a withdrawal of the gums exposing the tooth root. Result: longer teeth, increased sensitivity, and risk of tooth loss in the long term.
Main causes:
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Too aggressive or improperly directed brushing
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Plaque and tartar causing inflammation (gingivitis, periodontitis)
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Tobacco, systemic diseases (diabetes, autoimmune diseases)
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Aging or naturally thin gums
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Poor dental alignment
👉 Consequences:
Sensitivity, risk of root caries, bone loss, tooth mobility, aesthetic impact.
🩺 According to the UFSBD, more than 50% of adults show signs of gingival recession.
⚡ Does an electric toothbrush cause gum recession?
This is a misconception.
➡️ It is not the electric toothbrush that damages the gums, but incorrect use (too much pressure, bristles too hard, wrong angle).
🔍 Myth vs Reality
Clinical studies show that:
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Electric toothbrushes remove up to 21% more plaque than manual ones.
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They reduce gingival inflammation when used properly.
✅ Conclusion: the electric toothbrush protects your gums if used correctly.
⚠️ When use becomes problematic
An electric toothbrush can be harmful if:
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You press too hard (excessive pressure).
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You brush at 90° instead of 45°.
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You use a hard or worn brush head.
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You neglect interdental cleaning.
💡 Tip: favor electric toothbrushes with smart pressure sensors. They alert or stop rotation if you press too hard.
💚 The real benefits of the electric toothbrush for gums
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Regular movement = even brushing without excess
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Better plaque removal, even in hard-to-reach areas
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Reduces manual effort (ideal for fragile gums)
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Built-in pressure sensors and timers
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Sonic toothbrushes (like the DentalPro Smile PureBrush Pro™) are gentler thanks to their micro-vibrations and hydrodynamic effect
✨ Recommended for sensitive gums and people prone to gum recession.
🪥 How to use an electric toothbrush without damaging your gums?
1️⃣ Choose the right brush head
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Bristles soft or ultra-soft
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Compact size to reach back areas
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Avoid hard bristles (too abrasive)
2️⃣ Adopt the correct brushing technique
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Tilt the head at 45° towards the gum
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Do not press, let the brush do the work
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2 minutes, twice a day
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Follow a systematic path (top/bottom, left/right)
🦷 Pro tip: use a mirror or a connected app to correct your technique.
3️⃣ Use complementary accessories
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Water flosser to remove debris (e.g., HydroJet Pro™ from DentalPro Smile)
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Dental floss or interdental brushes
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Mild mouthwash alcohol-free
4️⃣ Maintain and replace your brush
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Change the head every 2 to 3 months
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Clean and let dry after each use
🧑⚕️ When to see a dentist?
See a dentist without delay if:
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Frequent bleeding
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Longer teeth
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Localized pain or sensitivity
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Red, swollen gums
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Tooth mobility
🦷 The dentist may perform:
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Scaling, root planing, or even gum grafting in severe cases.
🌿 Prevention and good practices
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Use a mild fluoridated toothpaste (without abrasives)
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Avoid tobacco
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Wait 30 minutes after an acidic meal before brushing your teeth
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Consume vitamin C, calcium, and antioxidants
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Have a check-up every 6 to 12 months
💧 Hydration also plays a key role: a dry mouth promotes bacterial plaque.
❓ FAQ: Frequently asked questions
1. Does an electric toothbrush cause gum recession?
👉 No, unless you press too hard or use a brush head that is too hard.
2. Which brush is best for sensitive gums?
👉 A gentle sonic brush, like the PureBrush Pro™ from DentalPro Smile.
3. Can you use an electric toothbrush with gum recession?
👉 Yes, provided you use a sensitive head and light pressure.
4. Is a manual toothbrush safer?
👉 Not necessarily: the hand often applies too much pressure.
5. Can gum recession be repaired?
👉 It can be stabilized, or even corrected by a gum graft.
🩵 Conclusion
The electric toothbrush is not responsible for gum recession — poor technique is.
By adopting a gentle sonic brush, controlled pressure, and appropriate accessories, you protect your gums in the long term.
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