Manual or Electric Toothbrush

Standing in the dental health aisle at the store, you debate which toothbrush you should get. Maybe you’ve heard that electric toothbrushes do a better job cleaning, but manual toothbrushes are clearly less expensive. How do you know which one is right for you? We’re asked for advice on this topic a lot at Williamsburg Dental. The answer may vary from person to person, depending on their unique needs. To help you decide for yourself, we’ll share some of the advantages and disadvantages of each type. Read on to learn which one may be the best option to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Electric Toothbrushes

The first electric toothbrush hit the market in 1960 and has been growing in popularity ever since. An electric toothbrush basically rotates or vibrates the bristles, giving the toothbrush micro-movements that can remove plaque beyond normal motions.

Pros

Although some studies suggest that electric toothbrushes perform better than their manual counterpart, most indicate that they are equally effective. That being said, many patients tend to brush more gently, more thoroughly, and more enthusiastically with an electric toothbrush. Most electric options have a built-in timer, helping patients brush for the full two minutes recommended by dentists.

In addition, when you take advantage of an electric toothbrush with changeable heads, you can purchase replacements and reduce waste compared to manual brushes. Plus, electric toothbrushes are typically easier to use for those with mobility issues, like arthritis or carpal tunnel, or other limiting physical or mental special needs.

Cons

The most obvious drawback for electric toothbrushes is the price. Electric toothbrushes can be quite expensive, especially when you factor in the cost of batteries. On that note, the use of batteries can make electric toothbrushes a less eco-friendly option than manual toothbrushes in terms of energy consumption.

Manual Toothbrushes

Although bristle toothbrushes date back to fifteenth century China, nylon manual toothbrushes have been around since 1938. Since then, handles and bristles have been adjusted to be more ergonomic and effective.

Pros

There’s a reason why manual toothbrushes are still the most prevalent option. They are cost effective! You can find toothbrushes for as little as $1, although the American Dental Association recommends using toothbrushes with multi-level or angled bristles over flat ones. In addition, you can find manual toothbrushes in basically any store that sells dental health products, whereas electric toothbrushes and replacement heads may be more difficult to find. Although there tends to be more waste, manual toothbrushes do not require batteries or electric energy, which is more beneficial for the environment.

Cons

Unfortunately, brushing too hard with a manual toothbrush is a common and easy mistake to make. Excessive force in brushing can lead to enamel wear and discoloration. Also, many patients with a manual toothbrush tend to stop brushing before the recommended two minutes, meaning that they may not clean as well as they otherwise could with more time.

What Really Matters

More than the type of toothbrush, what ultimately matters is how you’re brushing. You need to be brushing at least twice every day holding the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and using a fluoride toothpaste. If you use a manual toothbrush, we recommend using a kitchen timer or your phone to make sure you brush for a full two minutes. In general, dentists recommend using soft bristled toothbrushes, but if you are still brushing too hard with a manual, they may recommend using an electric one.

Regardless of which option you choose, most dentists encourage patients to replace their toothbrush (or head) every three to four months. At that point, it may not clear away plaque as effectively as it should, putting your teeth and gum at risk. If you are trying to decide between an electric and a manual toothbrush, you can talk to your dentist to assess your needs and find the product that will best help you maintain your healthy, beautiful smile.