11 May 2016 Electric Toothbrush Versus a Manual Toothbrush
The era of consumer choice is upon us. It used to be that the biggest decision in buying a toothbrush had to do with the firmness of the bristles. Now there is a great variety of both manual and electric models.
The question for most people is whether or not the added cost of an electric toothbrush is worth the money.
The Differences Between Them
A manual toothbrush is adequate when used the right way. However, many of us don’t use them for the necessary two minutes or clean every tooth. This is where electric toothbrushes come in. Electric toothbrushes work faster to clean the surfaces of the teeth. It’s simple math: a manual model will give you about 300 strokes per minute. An electric one will give you thousands.
The Advantages of an Electric Toothbrush
Electric toothbrushes are simply better at cleaning the teeth than manual models. A recent study showed that people who use them have less plaque and gum disease. Also, the electric model is helpful for people who have various issues using their limbs.
Other advantages of an electric toothbrush apply to the following people:
- Children – Children might think that electric models are fun and easier to use.
- People with braces – They make it easier for them to clean in and around all of the metal pieces.
- Lazy brushers – In case your dentist notices that you are having problems removing the plaque from your teeth, she might suggest that you use an electric toothbrush.
The Cons
With all of the advantages of an electric model, there still is the issue of the cost. While a manual toothbrush is really cheap, an electric one can cost $100 or more. You will also need to replace the brush heads every once in a while.
Also, a power toothbrush is much more bulky and can be difficult to travel with or store.
What Types Are There?
- Rotary – On this model, the head moves in a circular motion at 3,000 to 7,500 strokes per minute. Some models will move in alternate directions.
- Sonic – These use side-to-side motion with a speed of about ten times that of a rotary brush.
- Ultrasonic – These vibrate side to side quickly to dislodge plaque.
- Ionic – These use a low electric current to attract plaque.
There currently isn’t enough research to say which type works the best.
How much you should spend on a power toothbrush depends on how many extra features you want to get. Some models have travel cases and sensors that signal when you are brushing too hard. It is important to always purchase a model that has the seal of approval of the American Dental Association.
What dentists remind us is that, ultimately, an electric model does not compensate for bad brushing habits. It is important to brush thoroughly for two minutes twice a day at least. You should also make sure that you are using a fluoride toothpaste for best results.