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Atkins & Anderson DDS Blog

22Jul

Should I Use a Manual or Electric Toothbrush?

Everyone agrees that brushing your teeth twice a day is the foundation of oral health. However, choosing which toothbrush to use is a little more complicated.


According to the American Dental Association (ADA), both manual and electric toothbrushes effectively remove oral plaque, which causes decay and disease. But which toothbrush is better for your teeth – manual or electric?


Keep reading to learn about the benefits (and cons) of manual and electric toothbrushes.

 

Read More: Tips to Keep Your Teeth Clean Between Dental Cleanings

 

Electric Toothbrush Benefits

Electric toothbrush bristles rotate or vibrate to help remove plaque from your teeth and gums. The advantages of electric toothbrushes include:

  • More effective at removing plaque

A 2019 study followed 3,000 people for over 11 years and found that electric toothbrushes reduce the signs of periodontal disease. Studies also show that electric toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque (one of the main culprits of cavities and gum disease) and reducing gingivitis. 

  • Built-in timers

Most electric toothbrushes come with a built-in timer, which helps you brush long enough to remove plaque from your teeth and gums.

  • Easier for people with limited mobility

Electric toothbrushes do most of the work for you. Effective toothbrushing can be achieved as long as they are moved around the mouth, along the surface of each tooth. That makes electric toothbrushes helpful for children and those with limited mobility, including arthritis, carpal tunnel, Parkinson’s, or developmental disabilities. 

  • May improve your focus while brushing

At least one study found that people were more focused when brushing their teeth with an electric toothbrush. This improves your overall brushing experience and can improve how well you clean your teeth. 

Read More: Your Oral Health is Linked to Your Overall Health

  • Can cause less waste

Since you may only have to replace an electric toothbrush head, it can be less wasteful than throwing away a whole manual toothbrush. 

  • May improve oral health in people with orthodontic appliances

One study found that electric toothbrushes help those with orthodontic appliances like braces. 

  • Gentle on gums

An electric toothbrush shouldn’t hurt your gums or enamel when used properly. Many people brush too hard, which can cause irreversible damage to tooth enamel and gums over time. Some electric toothbrushes alert users when too much pressure is applied. 

  • Fun for Kids

Electric toothbrushes can be more fun and engaging for kids, helping them create healthy habits and establish good oral hygiene. 

Read More: Dental Hygiene – How to Care for Your Child’s Teeth

 

Electric Toothbrush Cons

The main disadvantage of electric toothbrushes is that they’re more expensive than manual ones. Prices range from $15 to $250, not including replacement heads. Disposable electric toothbrushes are less expensive, but you have to replace the batteries. 

Manual Toothbrush Benefits

Manual toothbrushes may not be as effective as electric toothbrushes, but brushing twice daily for two minutes will still clean your teeth and help prevent gingivitis. The advantages of manual toothbrushes include:

  • Affordable

Manual toothbrushes are less expensive than electric brushes and replacement heads.

  • Easily accessible

You can buy manual toothbrushes almost anywhere – grocery stores, gas stations, or dollar stores. And since they don’t need to be charged to function, you can use a manual toothbrush anywhere. 

Manual Toothbrush Cons

One study found that people are more likely to brush too hard when they use a manual toothbrush, which can damage gums and teeth.
It’s also hard to know if you’re brushing long enough without a built-in timer. 

Final Thoughts

Both manual and electric toothbrushes are effective at cleaning teeth if you use the proper technique and brush long enough. How you brush is more important than what you brush with!


Overall, an electric toothbrush can make brushing easier, resulting in better plaque removal. If you prefer using a manual toothbrush, choose one with soft bristles that won’t damage your teeth and gums. If you have any questions, talk to your dentist about which toothbrush might be best for you.

 

Are you looking for a trusted family or cosmetic dentist in the Bryan/College Station, Texas? Contact Atkins & Anderson DDS to learn more about our practice and services.

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