Are Electric Toothbrushes Better Than Manual Toothbrushes?
If you’ve been in the oral hygiene aisle of your local grocery store recently, you may have found the amount of toothbrushes available a bit overwhelming! With so many choices, how do you determine which toothbrush will work best for you?
It’s the Method, Not the Brush
According to experts, the key to preventing tooth decay isn’t so much in the actual toothbrush, but in how it’s used. So if you’ve got brushing and flossing down to a science, you’ll be fine sticking with a manual toothbrush. But for those of us who may not be so diligent, electric toothbrushes may be the better way to go.
Electric toothbrushes can also be extremely helpful for those who have difficulty maneuvering a manual toothbrush in the proper way, such as children or those with a condition such as arthritis.
These factors aside, selecting a toothbrush is largely a matter of personal preference. Here are some specifics on each type of toothbrush to help you decide which one may be most suitable for you.
A Look at Electric Toothbrushes
Electric toothbrushes have become more popular over the years as their design and technology have improved.
- Variety of Features. Electric toothbrushes are often equipped with features that can help you do a better job brushing your teeth. For example, sensors that tell if you’re brushing too hard or timers that indicate when you don’t brush long enough.
- Smaller Brush Heads.The brush heads on electric toothbrushes are significantly smaller than those on manual toothbrushes. The smaller size allows you to be able to reach the back of your mouth more easily than with a manual toothbrush.
- Higher Price. Yes, electric toothbrushes are more expensive than manual ones, but there’s a wide selection of models at various price points. And you don’t have to get the most expensive ones on the market, as you probably don’t need all the extras that come with these models. But if you’re a gadget lover and don’t mind a splurge, go ahead and get one with all the bells and whistles!
A Look at Manual Toothbrushes
Manual toothbrushes have been used for many years and continue to produce great results.
- Cost-effective.They’re inexpensive and will get the job done if you’re on a budget.
- Easy to travel with.Manual toothbrushes are light and compact, making them convenient for travel. And if you can easily bring your toothbrush with you, you’ll be more likely to practice good dental care while away!
- Puts less pressure on teeth and gums.When grasping a manual toothbrush, you have more control over the amount of pressure you’re using than you do with an electric toothbrush (especially if the electric toothbrush isn’t equipped with a pressure sensor).Excess pressure on your teeth while brushingcan wear away at the enamel and irritate your gums.
The Final Verdict: Electric or Manual?
High-tech or low-tech, the most effective toothbrush will ultimately be one you like and can use properly and comfortably. So, the best toothbrush for you is one you’ll actually use – every day!
