The Chronic Consumer

With my braces due to come off in a month or two, I’ve been on a major oral health kick recently. In addition to buying my first WaterPik, I also purchased a Butler Gum Stimulator to use on a daily basis. I want my teeth and gums to be in tiptop shape when my braces are removed, so I’m taking action now. Yes, it’s a bit late in the game to be doing this stuff, but it’s still better than nothing.

The Butler Gum Stimulator is shaped like a typical dental instrument, except that it has a pointed rubber tip on the end instead of a scaler or a mirror. You’re supposed to place the tip at the base of your gums between your teeth, and then “apply light pressure in a circular motion”. Apparently, this type of “gingival massage” gets the blood flowing through your gums and helps firm them up.

I do this for about 5-10 minutes per day, just when I’m watching TV or whatever. This kind of light pressure actually feels good, so I don’t mind using this tool. Will it really result in firmer gums and improved oral health? I have no idea, but it doesn’t hurt to try!