If you are brushing your teeth 4 minutes per day, its estimated that you will spend roughly a year of your life brushing your teeth! Since we dedicate that much time in our lives to cleaning our mouth, it makes sense that we give thought to what kind of brush we use, right?
There is much debate in the dental community whether an electric toothbrush is a worthy investment for your oral health. But the answer is, it’s up to you! Let’s explore electric verses manual brushes, so you can make an informed decision.
Electric Toothbrush
Pros
No More Plaque: According to a study published in 2015, electric toothbrushes remove 21% more plaque than manual brushes due to the oscillating and vibrating features.
Easy to Use: It’s no surprise that we tend to like doing things that come easily. Electric brushes can do some of the work for us, making it easier on our hands. Just keep in mind, you still should be holding your brush at a 45-degree angle with your gums to get a thorough clean!
Traditional Braces: If you have wire braces, an electric brush comes in handy. You may find the vibrating head makes it easier to clean around your wires and get those hard to reach spots.
Cons
Delicate: Your electric brush can be damaged if dropped or not cared for properly.
Bulky: If you often travel or enjoy a clean bathroom countertop free of clutter, an electric brush might not be the right answer. These brushes take up more space, require batteries or a charger.
Expensive: The cost of an electric brush can vary depending on its features, but they generally fall between the range of $20-$200 dollars. This doesn’t include the brush heads, which should be purchased every 3-4 months.
Manual Toothbrush
Pros
Transportable: Manual brushes are perfect for on the go! They can be easy transported without any extra accessories.
Budget-Friendly: Manual brushes cost less than $10 bucks plus your dentist will always give you a freebee with every visit.
Same Results: If you are following the right technique, you will see the same results with a manual brush as you would an electric brush.
Cons
Endless Options: Picking out a brush can be overwhelming. There are plenty of brands, bristles, and colors!
More Work: Unlike its oscillating, vibrating counterpart – manual brushes require a bit more work to maneuver.
Timing: Many electric brushes come with a built-in timer that lets you know once you have reached the 2-minute mark. With a manual brush, you will need to set a timer to make sure you are hitting your cleaning quota.
The Choice is Yours
We know everyone has their preferences, which is why the choice is up to you! Neither brush offers better results, so we recommend going with one that suits your lifestyle. Looking for brush recommendations? Contact us today.