Manual vs Electric Toothbrush: What’s Best For Me?
Buying a toothbrush should not be a challenging endeavor! However, standing in the grocery store or browsing online we are confronted by an overwhelming number of products and a variety of options. The first battle is deciding between an electric versus a manual toothbrush.
Let’s start by discussing the advantages and disadvantages of electric and manual toothbrushes:
Electric toothbrush
Advantages:
Easy to Use
Due to the oscillating motion of the bristles, electric toothbrushes only require that you slowly move the brush across all the surfaces of your teeth. This is a great solution for people who struggle with manual dexterity; the brush does most of the work, ensuring that your teeth are cleaned properly every time.
Better for Cleaning Teeth
Although the difference in cleaning ability between electric and manual brushes is very slight, an electric toothbrush is an efficient and more reliable way to achieve great results. One research group studied the effects of an electric toothbrush versus a manual one over 11 years and found a reduction in gum disease and bone loss in patients that used the electric product. When using a manual brush, a precise technique must be followed to ensure a proper cleaning. The oscillating head of an electric toothbrush is designed to mimic the correct brushing method and efficiently scrubs the bacterial plaque off your teeth.
Establishes Good Brushing Habits
Nowadays, most electric toothbrushes have pressure sensors that signal when there is too much force on the teeth and timers that will provide guidance for brushing all your teeth equally. The pressure sensor prevents the natural urge to “scrub” your teeth and helps maintain the delicate force needed to remove the plaque without being too abrasive. Additionally, some electric brushes will run for two minutes, helping individuals develop a habit of brushing for a full two minutes every morning and night.
Brushing with Orthodontic Appliances
For people with large metal brackets and wires covering their teeth, such as braces, an electric toothbrush will help remove plaque in those hard to reach places and assist in maintaining oral hygiene. Some electric products even have different attachments that cater to patients with orthodontic appliances.
Disadvantages:
Expensive
An electric toothbrush is an investment. The cost of buying an electric toothbrush can vary from $20-$200 depending on the quality and features included in the brush. The brush heads will need to be replaced every 3-4 months which is an additional expense. However, there are electric toothbrush options that are economical – providing the essential features at a more affordable price.
Requires Charging
Since an electric toothbrush is powered, it will need to be charged or have the batteries replaced frequently. This makes this product inconvenient for travel due to its bulky nature and need for consistent if not daily charging. Additionally, if the charger breaks or is misplaced it will need to be replaced for the toothbrush to be functional again.
Potential for Breaking
The technical systems incorporated in an electric toothbrush are complex and lead to possible problems that cannot be easily fixed. This would require buying a new electric toothbrush if it breaks. Hence as with most electronics, there is a potential for unexpected additional costs.
Manual Toothbrush
Advantages:
Inexpensive
A simple manual toothbrush can cost as little as $1, while still achieving almost the same results as the more expensive electric alternative. This makes a manual brush a much more reasonable choice for people who are not financially able to transition to an electric toothbrush. The manual toothbrush will also need to be replaced every 3-4 months. However, it is still much cheaper than an electric toothbrush.
Convenient for Travel
When traveling a manual toothbrush is the perfect companion. It is easily transported in any bag and just requires toothpaste and water to be used. For people who are constantly on the move, a manual toothbrush may be the more convenient option.
Easy to Purchase
Most grocery or convenience stores have an aisle dedicated to manual toothbrushes. There are always different sizes and styles, offering you the ability to select the brush that meets all your requirements. Additionally, many manual brushes come in large packs which makes it easy to shop for families.
Disadvantages:
Difficult to Use
While a manual toothbrush is a more cost-effective alternative to electric, it may not be the best for everyone. People with impaired manual dexterity may struggle to hold and move the brush for two minutes leading to poor technique and hygiene. It is also harder for children to use the brush appropriately. A manual toothbrush also requires you to be more focused on your brushing habits and technique to ensure you apply the right pressure and brush for the necessary amount of time.
Abrasive Nature
It is a common misconception that you need to brush with more force to provide better cleaning for your teeth. However, this extra pressure does not remove plaque more effectively and can damage your teeth and cause gum recession. Using a manual toothbrush increases the propensity to apply too much pressure when brushing when compared to an electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor feature.
Need to Use Correct Technique
When using a manual toothbrush, efficacy and technique go hand in hand. Manual toothbrushes are only effective at removing bacterial plaque from teeth if you are using the correct technique. There are a couple of different brushing techniques that are recommended by dentists, but the most effective brushing method is the modified bass technique.
Here are the steps for the modified bass brushing technique:
- Hold the toothbrush at 45-degree angle to gum line
- Brush each tooth with a gentle, circular motion
- Flick toothbrush down and away from the tooth and gums
- Repeat for all the surfaces (front, back and chewing surfaces) of each tooth in the mouth
Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine with the appropriate tools is important for ensuring good oral health. When deciding between an electric and manual toothbrush there are a lot of factors to consider. Either option, when used efficiently, can effectively remove plaque and bacteria from the surface of your teeth. Do you have any questions about the products you use to brush every morning? Schedule an appointment and we can help you keep your beautiful smile forever!