Dentists – such as Jonathan Alexander Abt – advise patients to brush their teeth twice a day for at least two minutes, and that one of these brushes should be just before bed.
Many people wonder whether electric toothbrushes are better than manual brushes; this article will explore the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Benefits of Using a Manual Toothbrush
Key advantages of using a manual toothbrush are their accessibility, as they can be easily purchased in a variety of different stores, as well as their affordability.
Disadvantages of Using a Manual Toothbrush
Research has shown that those using manual toothbrushes are more likely to brush too hard, potentially causing damage to the gums and teeth. As they don’t feature built-in timing devices, it can also be hard to judge when the recommended two minutes of brushing has been completed.
Pros of Using an Electric Toothbrush
The main benefit of using an electric toothbrush is the vibration and rotation of the bristles, which allow micro-movements across each tooth. Studies show that the use of an electric toothbrush removes significantly more plaque – and protects more effectively against gingivitis – than a manual toothbrush, with oscillating electric toothbrushes working particularly well in this regard.
The built-in timers featured in electric toothbrushes are also a big plus; research has shown that those using electric toothbrushes are more likely to be focused, making brushing more effective.
Other benefits of choosing an electric toothbrush are that children tend to be more engaged and open to brushing using this option, and that they often make brushing easier for those who have problems with mobility.
Finally, electric toothbrushes tend to be kinder on the gums and make brushing easier and more effective for those wearing an orthodontic appliance. Take a look at the embedded PDF for more advantages of using an electric toothbrush.
Cons of Using an Electric Toothbrush
The main disadvantage of electric toothbrushes is the cost: they tend to be significantly more expensive than manual brushes. Locating replacement heads can also be difficult. They are also less sustainable, due to their requirement for electricity and batteries.
Some people don’t like the vibrating feeling in the mouth of using an electric toothbrush, and others find them to be ‘messier’ than manual brushes as they tend to cause more movement of saliva in the mouth.