Every dental professional will tell you the first step towards good oral health is brushing your teeth (twice a day for at least 2 minutes each). Doing this helps remove bacteria that adheres to your teeth and causes plaque. Did you know that the buildup of plaque leads to gum disease and tooth decay?
Therefore, you need to choose a suitable toothbrush to prevent tooth decay and guarantee good oral health. For starters, will you go for the manual or electric type of toothbrush? Although the American Dental Association states that both these types are effective at removing plaque, each has its unique benefits and pitfalls. Today we pit electric toothbrushes against manual toothbrushes to see which is best suited for you.
Manual Toothbrush
These toothbrushes have been around longer than their electric counterparts. Although a manual toothbrush will lack the fancy bells and whistles in an electric toothbrush, it is an effective tooth cleaning gadget.
Pros
Affordable
Did you know you can get a manual toothbrush for as little as one dollar? It is an excellent option when you are on a budget. However, a few models can go up to $3, depending on your needs and customization features.
No Batteries or Chargers Required
Manual toothbrushes don’t need batteries or a charge to clean your teeth. You can, therefore, use them anywhere and at any time. Equally, you can purchase them at a gas station, grocery store, pharmacy, or dollar store.
Simple to Use
You do not have to read an entire manual to understand how a manual toothbrush works. All you need to do is apply toothpaste and start brushing. Note that there is no learning curve when you decide to use a manual toothbrush.
Cons
Needs Proper Brushing Technique to See Results
Without the proper technique, a manual toothbrush will either be ineffective or damage your teeth. Applying too much pressure can easily cause bleeding gums, while too little pressure will not prevent gingivitis or remove plaque. Ensure you seek expert advice on the proper brushing technique when using a manual toothbrush.
Electric Toothbrush
These models will rotate or vibrate, thus helping you remove the buildup of plaque from your gums and teeth. A simple vibration will create room for more micro-movements when you move the electric toothbrush across your teeth. Here is a quick look at the pros and cons of using this type of toothbrush.
Pros
Excellent at Removing Plaque
A 2019 German study found that electric toothbrushes ensured better oral health, including less tooth loss and gum disease than those using manual toothbrushes. Your electric toothbrush is, therefore, better suited for removing gingivitis and plaque.
Stops You from Brushing Too Hard
When used effectively, an electric toothbrush will not hurt your enamel or gums. Because it does all the work, you do not need to press too hard while brushing. Therefore, uses get to enjoy better overall oral health.
Includes a Built-in Timer
It will help if you brush your teeth long enough to ensure good oral health. Electric toothbrushes include a built-in timer that alerts you when it is time to stop. Therefore, you can sufficiently remove plaque every time you brush.
Ideal for Cleaning Braces
According to a 2017 review, orthodontic patients who use electric brushes have better gum health. If you have braces, having an electric toothbrush helps reduce inflammation and bleeding. However, note that more research is needed on this subject.
Does All the Work
An electric toothbrush does all the work through the vibrations and rotations. There is no need for vibrant hand and arm movements to clean your teeth. People with arthritis can effectively use this device with minimal hand movement.
Cons
Expensive
Did you know that an electric toothbrush pricing can range from $20 to $200? Cheaper models go for around $30, which is quite expensive compared to manual brushes. Also, the brush head needs at least four replacements every year.
Manual Toothbrush or Electric Toothbrush — Final Thoughts
Although electric toothbrushes are expensive than their manual counterparts, they are more effective at maintaining good oral health. However, discuss with your dentist to determine which type of toothbrush is best suited for your needs. At Foote Family Dental Care, we have a team of experts that can listen to your oral health needs and desires. Ensure you contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help.
