Toothbrushes have been an essential part of oral care routines for almost a century. The majority of this time, traditional manual toothbrushes were used. Electric toothbrushes emerged just a few decades ago, with claims to improve oral hygiene.
So what’s the truth? Is an electric toothbrush really better than a manual toothbrush?
Electric Toothbrush vs. Manual: What’s the Difference?
You do the work with a manual toothbrush, while the electric toothbrush does the bulk of the heavy lifting for you. To determine which is better for your needs, let’s look at the pros and cons of each.
Pros of the Electric Toothbrush
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.
- Easy to use.
- Less work 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 travel friendly/can be fragile.
Pros of the Manual Toothbrush
All of us have surely used a manual toothbrush before. As such, these pros should come as no surprise to a user.
- Thoroughly cleans your teeth (with proper technique).
- Can choose the color, style, and type of bristles that work best for you.
- 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.
- 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, watch this video by Jefferson Dental & Orthodontics’ very own Dr. Kharkhar. And don’t forget to schedule your regular cleanings and exams at your nearest Jefferson Dental office!
