Which Is Better, an Manual or Electric Toothbrush?

An electric toothbrush is often recommended to improve dental hygiene. Brushing your teeth with an electric toothbrush is a quick and easy way to help keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. However, they are more expensive than regular toothbrushes and replacement heads can be expensive. Both electric and manual toothbrushes have their advantages, so what are the advantages of using an electric toothbrush over a manual toothbrush?

Benefits of using an electric toothbrush

More effective in removing plaque from hard-to-reach areas
A review of studies has shown that electric toothbrushes typically remove more plaque and reduce gingivitis (gum disease) over time than conventional manual toothbrushes. If you use a small-headed electric toothbrush such as the 3D smart sonic electric toothbrush, the rounded oscillating head makes it easier to reach these awkward areas, especially at the back of your mouth. Electric toothbrushes whose bristles vibrate every time you brush over them produce more micro movements.

Built-in timer for at least 2 minutes of brushing
Well, most electric toothbrushes come with a built-in timer, which, unlike manual brushing, allows the user to know how long they have been brushing for. This is particularly useful in situations involving children, but using an egg timer or playing a 2-minute long song while brushing is always an alternative, but not always convenient.

It reduces waste
When it comes time to buy a new toothbrush, in many cases you will only need to replace the head of your electric toothbrush, so it may be less wasteful than throwing away a full manual toothbrush.
However, if you are using a disposable electric toothbrush, you will have to replace it completely when it wears out or at least every 3 months.

Your concentration may improve while brushing your teeth
At least one study has found that people concentrate better when brushing with an electric toothbrush. This can improve the overall experience of brushing and potentially improve how well you clean your teeth.

Using orthodontic appliances may improve oral health
One study found that electric toothbrushes are particularly useful for people with orthodontic braces (such as braces) because it makes brushing easier.
Among people who had orthodontic appliances that were already orally healthy, plaque levels were similar with or without the use of an electric toothbrush. However, if you find it difficult to clean your mouth while undergoing orthodontic treatment, an electric toothbrush may improve your oral health.

Fun for kids
Not all children are interested in brushing their teeth. If an electric toothbrush is more appealing to your child, it can help you achieve a good oral cleaning and develop healthy habits.

Gentle on the gums
Properly used, an electric toothbrush will not damage the gums or tooth enamel, but will promote overall oral health. Many people are guilty of brushing too hard, which over time can lead to irreversible damage to tooth enamel and irreversible gum recession. Some electric toothbrushes come with a sensor that emits a coloured light when too much pressure is applied, notifying the user to brush more gently.