Electric Toothbrushes vs. Manual Toothbrushes

Maintaining proper oral hygiene is an important part of life. After all, improper care contributes to problems like tooth decay, gum disease and other serious issues, so taking the time to make sure you’re taking care of your teeth should be a priority. As with many products on the market, the toothbrush has gotten a makeover in the last couple of decades with the emergence of electric toothbrushes on the scene.

So, what works better? Are you on Team Electric or Team Manual? When it comes to electric toothbrushes versus manual toothbrushes, are they created equal? Let’s find out!

About Electric Toothbrushes

Most dentists and orthodontists strongly recommend electric toothbrushes, due to the fact that they simply work better than the manual varieties. According to professionals, we aren’t humanly able to achieve the brush strokes that an electric toothbrush provides, and electric toothbrushes are a must for kids, teens and lazy brushers to ensure they’re taking proper care of their teeth. Because there are so many different varieties of electric toothbrushes available, there’s an option out there for anyone, and many electric toothbrushes include helpful additions, such as:

• Different modes of cleaning
• Timers
• Rotating oscillation
• Pressure sensors

Not only do electric toothbrushes provide the very best in plaque removal, they’re also easy to use, giving your teeth and gums a proper clean every time you brush.

About Manual Toothbrushes

There are still many people out there who use manual toothbrushes. Some don’t want to spend the money on an electric toothbrush and some simply are used to this kind of toothbrush from years of use. Some even prefer to have more control over their brushing technique, but no matter what, there are things to keep in mind when using a manual toothbrush.

For starters, it’s important to make sure you’re brushing properly for the right amount of time each and every time you brush. It’s also important to reach all areas of the mouth, gums and all surfaces of the teeth. If you’re using a manual toothbrush, it’s very important to keep these things in mind while you brush, so you’re not missing areas of the mouth and putting yourself at risk for problems later.

What Works Better?

The ADA states that when used properly, both an electric and a manual toothbrush can be effective ways to clean the teeth. It’s all up to preference; however, electric toothbrushes can ensure a better clean without having to worry about technique, pressure and brushing speed. Electric toothbrushes make things a bit easier when tackling your oral hygiene and takes the guesswork out of brushing your teeth properly.

What Will Work For You?

If you’re unsure about which option is right for you, speak with your dentist or orthodontist to see what they recommend. Chances are, you’ll fall in love with the ease and convenience of an electric toothbrush and won’t look at another manual toothbrush the same way again.