Electric toothbrushes have been around for ages but are they necessarily better than manual
toothbrushes? What brand should I purchase? As with everything, there are pros and cons with
each and we have to evaluate these before making an informed decision.
Electric Toothbrush vs. Manual: What’s the Difference?
The basics are simple – you do the work with a manual toothbrush and an electric toothbrush
does the work for you. But there is clearly not one solution for everyone.
Pros of the Electric Toothbrus
Electric toothbrushes have been growing in popularity over recent years, and for good reason.
Here are some of the top reasons given in favor of electric toothbrushes.
- They are easy to use.
- There is less work necessary with more thorough tooth cleaning.
- Built-in timers are a common feature to ensure you brush your teeth for two minutes.
- They’re fun! Even kids like them!
Cons of the Electric Toothbrush
There are, however, a few drawbacks to using an electric toothbrush such as:
- Requires charging/battery replacement.
- Costs more than a manual toothbrush.
- Bulky in size.
- Not always travel friendly/can be fragile.
Pros of the Manual Toothbrush
All of us have used a manual toothbrush before. As such, these pros should come as no surprise to a user:
- It thoroughly cleans your teeth when using proper technique.
- You can choose the color, style, and type of bristles that work best for you.
- It does not require charging or batteries.
- Easy to travel with or bring on-the-go.
- Cost effective.
Cons of the Manual Toothbrush
Sometimes a manual toothbrush may not be ideal for users for a few different reasons including:
- Manual work required.
- Improper technique can lead to ineffective cleaning.
- Improper technique can also cause damage to the gum tissue and tooth structure.
- Tooth-brushing time must be tracked.
The Bottom Line: Which is Better, Electric or Manual?
The most important thing is not what type of toothbrush you use, but rather how you use it. No toothbrush is effective if you don’t brush at least twice per day and practice good overall oral
hygiene. Based on the pros and cons presented above, decide which one works best for you and
your family. Ultimately, it’s your decision…and your smile!
For more tips on taking care of your teeth, schedule your next cleaning with one of our
wonderful dental hygienists at Grady Dental Care!