Your toothbrush is your first line of defense against harmful bacteria and decay. With so many types of toothbrushes on the market, you may be unsure which one is right for you. The biggest debate around toothbrush selection is whether a manual or electric toothbrush is better at cleaning our teeth. To address this debate, we’ll explore the pros and cons of electric toothbrushes so you can make an informed decision on which type of toothbrush is best for you!
Pros
Functionality: Depending on your wants or needs, there are a variety of functionalities and design options available for electric toothbrushes. Some models have brushing timers built into the toothbrush itself. This feature helps you track how long you’ve been brushing so you can ensure you’re brushing for a minimum of two minutes each time.
Gum protection: Some electric toothbrushes have pressure sensors that tell you if you’re brushing too hard. This helps reduce the chance of possibly damaging the gum line by using too much pressure. Brushing too hard or brushing continuously scrubbing in the horizontal position can cause your gums to bleed and tooth abrasion. Vigorous brushing can also wear down the lifespan of your brush head.
Ease-of-use: Manual toothbrushes require the user to continually use a circular scrubbing motion when cleaning around their mouth. With an electric toothbrush, much of the work is done by the brush itself. Many electric toothbrushes on the market have brush settings that allows you to adjust the speed and spin style to optimize your brushing experience.
Cons
Cost: For many, an electric toothbrush is a luxury item. Thus, a manual brush can be more economical option for larger families. Traditional manual toothbrushes are relatively inexpensive and can be found at many stores across the country.
Reliability: The manual toothbrush is a great way to remove plaque and requires no brush maintenance. Electric brushes must be charged, have batteries replaced or require other subtle forms of maintenance. If the motor stops working or the battery dies, all that’s left is an expensive manual toothbrush. You also have to purchase a new one if you drop or damage it, since repairs .
Traveling: Electric models can be big and bulky. Having to pack them plus their charging station can be an inconvenience. You also need to keep up with extra brush heads along with other brushing essentials such as toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash.
The medical community has not reached a definitive answer if electric toothbrushes are more effective than manual brushes at cleaning your teeth. Though, both agree on the importance of how frequent you brush and practicing good brushing techniques.
At Tendercare Dental, we believe that keeping a stellar oral hygiene routine will ensure that your mouth remains healthy, regardless of the type of brush that you use. A regular brushing and flossing routine is the best way to protect your teeth, regardless of the kind of tooth brush you use. For more information on selecting the right toothbrush for you, schedule your next dental appointment with us!