There are many things to consider when trying to choose an electric toothbrush versus a manual. Most dentists will tell you that the most important thing is how you brush, rather than which type of toothbrush you use to brush your teeth. One of the many benefits of electric toothbrushes is that they operate for the ideal tooth brushing time of two minutes.
With that said, it can be confusing to know which type of toothbrush is the best from a dental health point of view. To help you make an informed decision, we have put together some tips on what each type of brush offers. Keep reading to see who comes out tops in the choice of an electric toothbrush versus manual.
Electric Toothbrush Versus Manual – Which is best?
How do you know whether to choose an electric toothbrush versus manual toothbrush? For starters, consider the following:
- Manual toothbrushes are cheap, require no batteries or charging and can be used by anyone. Although they are effective if used properly, they can be difficult for those with limited flexibility, such as older patients or those with muscle or joint conditions. On a similar note, they can be a bit tricky for children who are starting to brush their own teeth. A number of studies show that manual brushing does not remove as much plaque as electric brushing, which is another factor to consider when deciding on which toothbrush to get for you and your family.
- Electric toothbrushes may cost more, and they may require charging. But they are also easier to use, even for those who have trouble gripping a toothbrush. The constant advancement of technology has given way for a wide variety of electric toothbrushes on the market. This makes it easier to find one that is in your budget. There are also many models that are made for children. Many dental experts state that electric toothbrushes can clean up to 23% more plaque than manual toothbrushes, as they are able to move at a faster rate and get to harder to reach places.
Now that you understand the primary differences between the two, how do you go about ensuring that your teeth are brushed correctly? Whichever type of brush you use, this is the order that you should be brushing your teeth:
- Upper teeth along the palate, then the upper teeth outer surfaces in a circular motion
- Lower teeth along the surface closer to the tongue, then the lower teeth outer surfaces in a circular motion
- Chewing surfaces on both sides on the upper and lower jaws
Looking for more dental care advice? Get more tips in our guide to brushing teeth correctly. You can also book a professional dental clean with one of our highly skilled dentists in Durban, who will help you get your teeth feeling sparkling clean in no time. Make a booking today to get expert help from our team! We will also answer any further questions you may have about deciding on electric toothbrushes versus manual toothbrushes.
