Toothbrush Talk: Is Electric Better Than Manual?

July 5, 2024

Filed under: Uncategorized — roselleparkdental @ 5:56 pm
An assortment of toothbrushes in a container with a pale blue background

You’re probably already aware that brushing and flossing twice daily is a simple but effective way to safeguard your smile. Regularly removing unwanted plaque and bacteria buildup can prevent problems like cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. It’s natural to want to do everything you can to keep your teeth and gums in good health to avoid these types of issues, and the products you use can make a difference.

For example, many patients want to know what kind of toothbrush to use for the most thorough cleaning. Is an electronic option better at removing residue than a standard one? Read on to learn more about the benefits of each type so you can make an informed decision!

The Benefits of Electronic Toothbrushes

Over the past few decades, electronic toothbrushes have gained popularity because they provide so many unique advantages, such as:

  • Cleaner teeth. Research has demonstrated that electronic options can be up to 17% more effective at removing plaque than manual ones.
  • Easy to use. Many children and older adults have mobility challenges that make grasping a small handle challenging. Electronic versions oscillate on their own and don’t require as much movement manipulation.
  • Built-in features. These often include timers, pressure sensors, and reminders to replace the head to help you keep your mouth clean.
  • Less waste. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends replacing your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months, but with an electronic one, you only replace its tip. Instead of tossing the whole thing, you only throw away a small piece.

Although choosing an electronic toothbrush has many advantages, it also comes with additional expenses. The replacement heads are more costly than regular toothbrushes and, depending on the brand you’ve chosen, may only be available for purchase online.

The Benefits of Manual Toothbrushes

If you prefer to keep it simple and stick with a traditional toothbrush, you might worry that you’ll miss out on some major perks. However, it’s possible to thoroughly clean your smile even without all the fancy bells and whistles. Some pluses to choosing a standard model include:

  • Convenience. No matter what your circumstances, it’s not usually difficult to find a basic toothbrush when you need one. They’re available in most grocery stores, pharmacies, and even gas stations if you’re away from home.
  • Versatility. There is a myriad of selections, making it easier to find something to meet your specific needs. Whether you prefer hard or soft bristles or require a smaller or larger brush head, you’re sure to find something that works for you.
  • Cost-effective. A manual toothbrush costs just a few dollars, whereas electronic types and their replacement heads tend to be much pricier.  
  • Portable. It’s easy to tuck a spare toothbrush into your purse or briefcase or stow one in your car’s glove compartment so you can freshen up while you’re on the go.

Regardless of what type of brush you choose, it’s important to scrub your teeth thoroughly for a full two minutes twice every day!

About the Practice

At Roselle Park Dental & Implants, you and your family benefit from a team of specialists who offer a comprehensive menu of services at one convenient location. Whether you require a routine checkup and cleaning or need a more complex procedure, they have the experience to help. They believe honesty is the best policy and take the time to walk you through any recommended procedures and pricing so you always feel well informed. Then, they combine a personal approach with state-of-the-art equipment to enhance patient comfort and increase result accuracy. To request an appointment, contact the office on the website or call (908) 245-1745.