Are Electric Toothbrushes a Better Option Than Manual Ones?

You know that brushing your teeth twice every single day is crucial for optimal oral health, but have you ever put much thought into the tools that you are using to keep your smile clean? There are two main categories when it comes to toothbrushes: manual and electric. Everyone has a unique smile, but does one of these options tend to work better than the other one? Your dentist in Mesquite shares more about the pros and cons of the two types of toothbrushes so you can decide which one is the best choice for you.

Manual Toothbrushes

The first nylon bristled toothbrush went on sale in 1938, so there has been plenty of time to pick out all of the pros and cons. Manual brushes are the most popular type of toothbrush that you see at the store and elsewhere, but is it really your best option?

Pros of Manual Toothbrushes

• Easily Accessible: It is extremely easy to find manual toothbrushes. If you didn’t already receive one during your last dental visit, you can go to pretty much any grocery store, gas station, dollar store, or pharmacy and pick one up. If you are travelling, you can often find them in hotel lobbies for sale.

• Affordable: If you don’t want to spend too much money on your oral hygiene routine, you don’t have to with this type of toothbrush. They are very cost effective, usually ranging from $1 to $3.

• Effective: With proper technique, manual toothbrushes are effective at removing both food debris and plaque.

Cons of Manual Toothbrushes

• Brush Too Hard: Many people tend to brush too vigorously when using a manual toothbrush which can cause damage to both the teeth and gums.

• No Timer: It’s more difficult to know if you’re brushing for long enough if you don’t have a built-in timer.

Electric Toothbrushes

Many people swear by electric toothbrushes and feel like they do a better job at keeping their teeth clean. Here are the pros and cons of using an electric toothbrush:

Pros of Electric Toothbrushes

• Easier to Use: If you have limited mobility due to carpal tunnel, arthritis, developmental disabilities, or another condition, electric toothbrushes make it much easier to thoroughly brush your teeth.

• Better at Cleaning: According to different studies, electric toothbrushes tend to do a more thorough job at removing plaque and preventing gingivitis than manual ones.

• Less Waste: After you’re done using a manual toothbrush, you generally just throw it away. But with most electric toothbrushes, you just need to replace the head. In the end, they are less wasteful.

Cons of Electric Toothbrushes

• More Expensive: Even though they last much longer, electric toothbrushes can cost a lot more than their manual counterparts.

• Difficult for Travelling: Electric toothbrushes take up more space than manual brushes, making them less ideal to travel with, especially if you don’t have much room for packing.

Even though both options have their pros and cons, with proper technique, both toothbrushes are great choices. In general, electric toothbrushes tend to be more effective at cleaning your smile, but both are efficient when used correctly.

About the Practice

At Bear Creek Family Dentistry, the team consists of both general dentists and specialists in pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, oral surgery, and prosthodontic so patients can get everything they need in one place. The staff are devoted to spending numerous hours continuing education every year in order to keep up with advances in technology and techniques. To learn more about proper oral hygiene or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (972) 331-5300.