Electric Toothbrush vs. Manual Toothbrush
Electric Toothbrush vs. Manual Toothbrush
We all know that brushing our teeth twice a day is essential for our oral health - but when it comes to the type of toothbrush we should be using, which is more effective: manual or electric?
Simply put, an oscillating, rechargeable electric toothbrush with a small head will generally do a better job of removing plaque and debris than a manual toothbrush. However, there are benefits to both types of brushes - and a manual option can still be a good choice in certain cases, such as for young children or when you’re travelling.
Discover the benefits of both manual and electric toothbrushes, so you can make the best brush choice for your needs.
Benefits of Manual Toothbrushes
Different brushes for different needs
With a manual toothbrush, you have the option of different bristle styles (from soft to hard), as well as a variety of brush head sizes, so can select a toothbrush that’s best suited to your oral needs.
If you have sensitive gums, opt for a toothbrush with softer bristles. In terms of size, simply choose a brush head size that feels comfortable in your mouth.
Engaging brush styles for kids
Manual toothbrushes come in lots of different styles and colours, which can be a great way to get children interested in and excited about brushing their teeth.
Look for toothbrushes that feature your child’s favourite character or theme for maximum excitement when it’s time to brush.
No batteries or charging required
Unlike their electric counterparts, manual toothbrushes don’t require batteries or the need to recharge before use.
This makes them a convenient option for travelling and holidays, with no requirement to pack extra batteries or a bulky charging port.
Lower purchase price
Manual toothbrushes are less expensive to buy and replace than electric toothbrushes.
However, it’s important to bear in mind that manual brushes will need to be replaced approximately every three months to ensure they continue to remove debris and plaque effectively.
Benefits of Electric Toothbrushes
Less effort, more effectiveness
Electric toothbrushes require less work to brush teeth effectively. It’s easier to get an optimal clean, particularly on those hard-to-reach areas at the back of your mouth.
The reduced effort involved compared to a manual toothbrush also makes electric toothbrushes a good option for people suffering from arthritis or who lack dexterity.
Timed brushing
Most electric toothbrushes have a built-in timer that runs for two minutes. This means that you can be sure you’re brushing your teeth for the full recommended two minutes each time, rather than leaving it to guesswork.
It’s important to brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day as part of your regular oral hygiene routine, so an electric toothbrush can help you maintain optimal dental health.
An investment in your oral health
While electric toothbrushes come at a higher price point than manual brushes, they are an investment that can help maintain good oral health in the long term.
It’s also worth remembering that you only need to replace the brush heads regularly, not the entire electric toothbrush.
How much does an electric toothbrush cost?
You shouldn’t need to spend much more than $40 for a good electric toothbrush. More expensive models are likely to come with additional features such as Bluetooth, digital displays, and other options which may not provide much benefit for the higher price.
What should I look for in an electric toothbrush?
When choosing a suitable electric toothbrush, you’ll want to ensure that the toothbrush head oscillates (rather than simply vibrating) and that the toothbrush is rechargeable.
Regardless of what type of toothbrush you use, the key to oral hygiene success is ensuring you are using a proper brushing technique.
If you’re unsure of the best way to brush your teeth effectively - or if you need help choosing a suitable toothbrush for you or your children - chat to your National Dental Care Group dentist. You can make an appointment online today.