Electric Toothbrush or Manual Toothbrush?

Which is better: an electric or manual toothbrush? Well, we are happy to tell you that your preference is all that matters! As long as your teeth get effectively cleaned each day, it does not matter which brush you use. But, we do understand that knowing the pros and cons of each brush can help you choose the best brush for your smile.

Plaque-removing abilities
The manual toothbrush has been providing success year after year when it comes to removing plaque from your smile. The electric toothbrush also removed about the same amount of plaque from the teeth when it first became available. However, now that the design and technology of the electric toothbrush have evolved, the powered brush has proven to remove a larger amount of plaque compared to the manual toothbrush, especially from the hard-to-reach places of your mouth.

Brushing technique
Did you know that there is a right and wrong way to brush your teeth? Well, it’s true, and there is only one right way to brush your teeth with a manual toothbrush. When it comes to brushing with an electric toothbrush, there are specific techniques you need to use with each brand. So before you begin brushing, make sure you read the instruction manual.

Ease of use
A manual toothbrush is simple because the design, shape, and size are accurate and easy to handle. These brushes fit perfectly in your mouth and they are light and mobile. However, if you are one who has a difficult time performing the circular motions of your brushing technique, an electric toothbrush might be a better option for you.

As you probably already know, an electric toothbrush does the brushing for you. You still need to guide your brush from tooth to tooth, but it will effectively clean your teeth as you do so. This brush is typically much heavier than manual toothbrushes, especially because of the batteries in the base of the brush, which can make the brush 6 to 14 oz. The fact that the brush is heavier can create a burden for some people.

Technical advantages
For those who are interested in using a brush with technical applications, the electric toothbrush is the best choice for you. Some brands offer oral hygiene tips to help you improve your cleaning technique as well as your oral health. Other brands have timers built into the brush to inform you on the appropriate time you need to spend brushing your teeth. Some brands play music as you place the toothbrush head in your mouth.

If you would like more information about electric and manual toothbrushes, we invite you to call our office today and schedule a dental appointment. We are more than happy to help you make the best decisions for your smile!