Is an Electric Toothbrush Better than a Manual Toothbrush?

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As you search for your perfect brush in the oral hygiene isle at the store, it is important to know that your preference in toothbrush is all that matters when it comes to electric and manual toothbrushes. With that being said, there are pros and cons for each brush that can help you make your decision, including:

Plaque-removing abilities
Each brush has been proven to remove plaque successfully, effectively, and efficiently from your smile. When the electric brush first came out, there wasn’t a huge difference in plaque-removing abilities compared to the manual toothbrush. However, now that the technology and design has evolved, the electric toothbrush has been proven to remove more plaque from the smile, and it is able to do so in the hard-to-reach areas of the mouth.

Brushing technique
When it comes to your brushing technique, there is only one right way to brush with a manual toothbrush. Simply hold your brush at a 45-degree angle and begin brushing your teeth at the gum line. As you brush, use a gentle circular motion and move up and down each tooth. When it comes to using an electric toothbrush, the right technique depends on which brand you use. So, when you first open your toothbrush package, make sure you read the directions so you can use the tool properly.

Ease of use
The design, shape, and size of a manual toothbrush are simple and effective. The manual toothbrush is easy for people to use and it fits perfectly inside the mouth, giving you the best tool to clean your smile. But, for those who aren’t sure they are brushing properly, an electric toothbrush can help.

The electric toothbrush, compared to the manual toothbrush, is certainly heavier. Because of the batteries in the device, the brushes can be 6 to 14 oz., which can be a burden for some people. As you brush your teeth, you still need to guide the brush from tooth to tooth, but when it comes to the brushing motion itself, your brush will do the work for you.

Technical advantages
For those who are interested in the technical aspects of the electric toothbrush, there are many applications that can persuade your decision when choosing a brush. Some electric toothbrush brands have timers that help you accurately and successfully brush your teeth for the proper amount of time. Other brands give you oral hygiene tips while you brush to help you improve your brushing technique as well as your oral health. And some brands play music while the bristles clean your teeth.

If you would like to learn more about electric and manual toothbrushes, we invite you to call our office today and talk to a member of our team. We are thrilled to help you choose the best brush for your smile!