Pennington Family Dentistry

Did you know solid-head power toothbrushes are better hygiene-wise compared to the hollow-head ones? According to researchers from University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, School of Dentistry, hollow-head power toothbrushes retain more bacteria. In nine out of ten comparisons, microbial counts in solid-head power toothbrushes were lower than the hollow-heads, lead research author Prof. Donna Warren Morris, R.D.H., M.Ed., revealed.

Toothbrushes can transmit microorganisms that cause disease and infections, Prof. Morris said. [But] a solid-head design allows for less growth of bacteria. She added that the bristles should be soft and nylon-made.

The study was carried out for three weeks where participants were told to brush their teeth twice each day. In addition, the participants were only given non-antimicrobial but were allowed to continue with their flossing routine. However, they refrained from using other dental products.

Following the conclusion of the study, the researchers revealed that the power toothbrushes, as well as its users, were exposed to five different types of microorganisms:

(1) anaerobes and facultative microorganisms,
(2) yeast and mold,
(3) oral streptococci and oral enterococci anaerobes,
(4) Porphyromonas gingivalis, and (5) Fusobacterium species.

While bacterial growth found in toothbrushes are not known to cause health problems, Prof. Morris said it is associated with systemic diseases such as colorectal cancer, which is linked with the Fusobacterium species. There is also a concrete association between gum disease and these bacteria.

In most cases, packaging of most power toothbrushes do not provide labels or identifying markings to identify whether it is a hollow-head or a solid-head. To distinguish solid-head power toothbrushes from hollow-heads, Prof. Morris has this to say: The best way to identify a solid-head design is through the connection to the body of the power toothbrush. Naturally, there will be some space to connect the two parts but a significant portion will be solid, up to the bristles or brush head.

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I wished I had tried this dentist office sooner. Everyone there are very professional and knowledgeable. I was looking for a new dentist and I found Dr. Ana and I could not be more satisfied. My confidence in her was well placed. I would hope that every dentist was this good. I had a problem with my teeth for awhile. Two others dentists did not mention it to me but she was able to see what my problem was right away. It is now fixed and I couldn’t be more pleased with the work she did.

Dr. Ana is a fabulous dentist. Recently I had extensive dental work on my front teeth. Prior to the start of work she took an impression and made a temporary piece that looked natural. I am extremely happy with the final result. She is meticulous and caring, a great combination. The office staff is professional and courteous. I have been a patient at Pennington Family Dentistry for over 30 years.

Great staff! Been here a couple times already and they are efficient and they take the time to get to know you. Spent years in a large practice before this but never got that personal experience you want with a doctor or dentist. Would highly recommend this practice.

Professional friendly staff. Always feel comfortable and welcomed here. Dr. Bernie treat patients with attentive care and respect. Michele is so helpful and kind. Charissa is the best hygienist and her injections are the least painful ever.

I have been a patient of Pennington Family Dentistry for over 40 years and cannot say enough complimentary things about the professionalism of the entire staff. From the front desk to the hygienist to the doctors, each delivers superb and comfortable care. I highly recommend PFD to all those who seek dental care.

My wife and I have each visited PFD several times now, and we both have been consistently impressed with each of the staff, who have all been very friendly, knowledgeable and thorough.

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