Are you using a manual toothbrush? Curious about the real benefits of electric toothbrushes? Read on, as we explore the difference between manual and electric toothbrushes... Just a warning... You may just switch!
Electric toothbrush bristles vibrate or rotate to help you remove plaque buildup from your teeth and gums. The vibration disrupts the plaque, which loves to stay still and hidden, as you move your electric toothbrush across your teeth and gums.
More effective at removing plaque
A review of studies showed that, in general, electric toothbrushes do decrease more plaque and gingivitis than manual toothbrushes. After three months of use, plaque was reduced by 21% and gingivitis was reduced by 11%. Oscillating (rotating) toothbrushes seem to work better than just vibrating toothbrushes.
In a study by the ADA, out of 16,000 people, more than 80% said the electric toothbrush simply cleaned their mouths better.
Easier for people with limited mobility
For people with limited endurance, strength, reduced arm, wrist and finger mobility, the electric toothbrush does most of the work for them. Electric brushes may be helpful for people with:
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Arthritis
Developmental Disabilities
Built-in timers
A timer built into an electric toothbrush can help you brush your teeth long enough to sufficiently remove plaque from your teeth and gums.
Pressure Sensors
Ever notice that you electric brush stopped vibrating? That is the benefit of the pressure sensors, which detect how much pressure you are applying to your teeth and gums! How helpful!
Cleaning around the braces
Electric toothbrushes are particularly helpful for people with braces, because it makes brushing easier, with the bristles moving by themselves and doing the work.
Fun for kids
Some electric toothbrushes have fun characters and bright colors, so it may spark an interest in brushing as part of kids' daily routines! Remember, the ADA recommends electric brushes at age 3 and above, when kids' gums are a bit stronger.
Electric toothbrush cons
Electric toothbrushes are more expensive than manual ones. Prices range anywhere from $15 to over $250 per brush. New replacement brush heads usually come in packs of multiples and cost between $10 and $45.
Finding the right replacement brush heads may not always be easy or convenient, either, since not all stores carry them, and your local stores may not have the correct brand. Certain brushes require specific heads, but once you find what you need (preferably soft bristled) you should stock up so it's not always a last-second rush when you need your next toothbrush head.
Vibration is the most intense of the somatic senses, and not everyone likes the vibrating feeling, especially among individuals with sensory sensitivity.
Manual toothbrush benefits
Manual toothbrushes have been around for a long time. While they don’t have timers, lights, or pressure sensors, they are still an effective tool for cleaning your teeth and preventing gingivitis.
Accessible
Manual toothbrushes are everywhere, from grocery stores and gas stations to the airport or online. They also don’t need to be charged, so you can use a manual toothbrush anywhere and at any time.
Affordable
Manual toothbrushes are cost-effective. You can usually buy one for $1 to $3. (At Harte Dental, we recommend soft-bristled brushes, as they get the job done while avoiding irritating your gums.)
Manual toothbrush cons
One study found that people were more likely to brush too hard if they used a manual toothbrush versus electric. Brushing too hard can hurt your gums and teeth.
There are no built-in timers, so it is possible you may brush less than needed, leading to plaque staying on your teeth.
When to replace your toothbrush
All toothbrushes need to be replaced every 3 to 4 months, according to the ADA. Replace your toothbrush sooner if it looks frayed or if you used it when you were sick. You can also tell when your brush is getting old by how faded the colors are on the bristles. For example, the blue bristles are now faded down to half the bristle.
So which brushes better? ... Electric Toothbrushes!
Both electric and manual toothbrushes are effective at cleaning teeth if you use proper technique and brush long enough. Overall, though an electric toothbrush generally makes brushing easier, resulting in better plaque removal.
Come see our award-winning team at Harte Dental, where we love preventing dental and periodontal issues, along with educating our wonderful patients on best-practices! Call today at (617) 696-5257 or email ContactUs@hartedental.com
Info from https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/electric-toothbrush-vs-manual#use