Electric vs. Manual Toothbrush — Which Should You Choose?

Modern technology is an integral part of our lives. We are constantly upgrading to the next, best gadget. It has also revolutionized health care, and patients are reaping the benefits. Modern dentistry has made many advances, not least of which is the electric toothbrush. Have you already made the switch to an electric toothbrush? Should you?

Manual Toothbrushes — Pros and Cons

Humans have been using some type of tool to clean their teeth for millennia. The first bristle toothbrush appeared centuries ago, and the toothbrush, as we know it now, has been around for close to 100 years. Obviously, it is only as effective as its user, but let’s take a look at some pros and cons of using a manual toothbrush.

Pros	Cons
Easy to Use Inexpensive Portable and Travel Friendly Doesn’t need to be recharged	Risk of over-brushing and gum abrasion Can be difficult to handle for people with arthritis or mobility challenges Inefficient

  

How to Choose a Manual Toothbrush

There are three important things to consider when choosing a manual toothbrush.

1. The bristles. It is best to choose one with soft bristles, not medium or hard, to protect your tooth enamel and gums from harsh brushing. 
2. The size of the head is important. You want it to fit comfortably in your mouth, and it should be small enough to maneuver around your mouth and any dental appliances you may have.
3. The grip should be comfortable for you to hold while brushing.

Electric Toothbrushes — Pros and Cons

Electric toothbrushes first came on the scene in the 1950s and have only gotten better over time. New features include timers and apps that can give the user useful data. However, its value lies in how it is used. When used correctly, it can be your best defense against plaque and tooth decay. Like any tool, it also has its pros and cons.

Pros	Cons
Thorough, gentle cleaning Support for patients with arthritis or mobility issues Makes brushing easier Convenient features like timers and apps	High-end models can be pricey Requires electricity/batteries  Multiple components Risk of damage if dropped

 

How to Choose an Electric Toothbrush

Unlike its manual counterpart, there are more factors to consider when choosing an electric toothbrush. You will need to choose the type of head movement — rotating or oscillating — and what additional technology you want incorporated into your toothbrush. Depending on your specific oral care needs, there is also a wide variety of heads to choose from. Modern electric toothbrushes also have different settings that you can select, from everyday cleaning to a setting for sensitive teeth and gums. These are all things to consider when making your final choice. 

If you are still deciding which is best for you, call us or ask at your next appointment, and remember to schedule your next cleaning and examination. We look forward to seeing you in our office located in Phoenix, AZ.