What are the pros and cons of an electric vs. manual toothbrush? Brushing your teeth sets a foundation for the vitality of your oral health, but walking into a store to pick out a new toothbrush for yourself can be quite overwhelming nowadays. Luckily, we are here to help! We will explore the differences between an electric vs. manual toothbrush to help you determine the best toothbrush for your bite.
Electric vs. Manual Toothbrush: The Pros and Cons of Each
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), both electric and manual toothbrushes are effective at removing plaque, but each has its own additional benefits. Regardless of the type of toothbrush, the ADA puts a seal of approval on all brushes that are proven to be safe and effective.
Electric vs. Manual Toothbrush: Pros and Cons of the Electric Toothbrush
The vibration or rotation of bristles on an electric toothbrush helps to remove plaque buildup on your teeth and gums. A review of studies found that electric toothbrushes do remove more plaque than their manual counterpart. Here are several benefits that many people reap through the use of an electric toothbrush:
- Easier for individuals with limited mobility
- Less waste if swappable heads are utilized
- Safe for gums when used properly
- Improved focus when brushing
Electric toothbrushes are great in part because of the variety of features you can choose between based on your needs. For example, if you find that brushing for the full 2 minutes can be challenging, invest in an electric toothbrush with a timer.
One main disadvantage of this type of toothbrush is the cost. Electric toothbrushes vary in pricing but tend to range between $10 and $250. If these are not within your budget, disposable electric toothbrushes are also available, which are typically under $10.
Electric vs. Manual Toothbrush: Pros and Cons of the Manual Toothbrush
Manual toothbrushes have been around for a long time and they are effective at cleaning your teeth by removing plaque and reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Manual toothbrushes are also widely available across the country at affordable prices, a clear advantage to those on a budget.
Another advantage is that these toothbrushes are considered more environmentally-friendly than electric toothbrushes, especially if you select one that is made from biodegradable materials.
Another benefit is that they are much quieter than electric toothbrushes, which is especially beneficial when you are in a shared living space or are traveling. They are also much lighter than an electric toothbrush.
Lastly, you don’t need to charge a manual toothbrush, which is advantageous when you can’t access electrical power or during a power outage. Sometimes people misplace their electric toothbrush charger as well.
However, a downfall of manual toothbrushes is that they do not possess any of the bells and whistles you may find on an electric model such as a timer or smart technology. According to scientific studies, they may not be as effective at removing plaque as an electric toothbrush either.
Electric vs. Manual Toothbrush: Which is Best for You?
Now that we’ve covered the pros and cons of an electric vs. manual toothbrush, we hope you can make the best informed decision for you and your oral health. No matter which toothbrush you choose to brush your teeth with, make sure you clean your teeth twice daily! Instilling proper oral health care habits into your routine is a step in the right direction towards a shining smile.
If you’re located in the Twin Cities, we would be honored to be part of your oral health journey. Schedule an appointment at our St. Louis Park, MN or Bloomington, MN dental locations through our contact form.
