Which Toothbrush Is Better: Electric or Manual? Expert Advice
Teeth brushing is the foundation of good oral care, and is very essential in preventing dental problems. Both manual and electric toothbrushes can effective at removing plaque that causes disease and decay. For as long as you use those that have the Seal of Acceptance of the American Dental Association (ADA), any toothbrush is safe and effective. But is one of them better than the other? Read on and find out.
Electric Toothbrush
The bristles of an electric toothbrush rotate or vibrate to help remove plaque buildup from the teeth and gums. This vibration allows for micro-movements each time you move the toothbrush across your teeth.
Pros of an Electric Toothbrush
- More effective. Studies have shown that electric toothbrushes generally decrease gingivitis and plaque compared to manual brushes. After three months of use, gingivitis is reduced by 11 percent, while plaque is reduced by 21 percent.
- Easy to use. Because electric toothbrushes do most of the work, they are helpful for people with mobility problems like arthritis, carpal tunnel, and developmental disabilities.
- Come with built-in timers. This feature helps you brush your teeth long enough for them to effectively remove plaque from your teeth and gums.
- Can cause less waste. If you need a new toothbrush, you only need to replace an electric toothbrush’s head. This makes it less wasteful than throwing away a manual toothbrush.
- Helpful for people with orthodontic appliances. Electric toothbrushes are helpful for people with braces and other orthodontic appliances because it makes brushing easier.
- Fun for kids. Not all children are interested in brushing their teeth. An electric toothbrush has been shown to be more engaging to a child, helping them accomplish and set good oral cleaning habits.
- Safe for gums. When used properly, an electric toothbrush will not hurt your enamel or gums and instead promote good overall oral health.
Cons of an Electric Toothbrush
Electric toothbrushes are more costly compared to manual brushes. Also, finding the right replacement brush heads is not always easy because not all stores carry them. Finally, not everyone is a fan of the vibrating feeling. It should also be noted that toothbrushes create more saliva in the mouth, so brushing can get a little messy.
Manual Toothbrush
Manual toothbrushes have been around and have been used for a long time. They might not have the additional features of electric toothbrushes, but they are still effective in cleaning the teeth nonetheless.
Pros of a Manual Toothbrush
- Manual toothbrushes are available in practically almost any grocery store, dollar store, pharmacy, or gas station. They do not need charging to function, so they can be used anytime and anywhere.
- For just a couple of dollars, you can already get yourself a decent manual toothbrush.
Cons of a Manual Toothbrush
A study found that people are more likely to brush too hard with a manual toothbrush compared to an electric one. Brushing too hard can hurt your teeth and gums. Also, using a manual toothbrush makes it difficult to know if you’re brushing long enough since they do not come with timers. Using a kitchen timer can help you properly time your brushing sessions.
With the right technique, both manual and electric toothbrushes are effective in cleaning your tooth. Choosing the right one is all about finding the one that works best for your specific needs. If you have any more questions about the right kind of toothbrush for you, talk with your dentist about it.
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