MODEL RELEASED. Electric toothbrush. Woman brushing her teeth with an electric toothbrush. This device contains a motor that vibrates and turns the toothbrush head to help clean the teeth. Regular brushing of teeth with toothpaste (not seen) helps to prevent tooth decay by removing scraps of food and bacterial plaque that can accumulate on teeth. Toothpaste contains abrasive substances that help clean the teeth. Some toothpastes also contain fluoride, as this also helps to prevent tooth decay.