With so many toothbrushes out there on the market today, it can be difficult to choose which is best for you. Electric, manual—how can you make a solid decision? Your Lincoln dentist is here to give you the pros and cons of both types so that you can make an educated choice the next time you’re browsing the dental health aisle.
The Manual Toothbrush
Researchers from the American Dental Association say that the basic manual toothbrush is completely effective in removing sticky plaque from tooth enamel, gums and other soft tissues of the mouth.
When brushing for 2 minutes, 2 times a day just as the ADA recommends, the average patient will have been diligent enough to ward off tooth decay and gum disease in most cases. This is particularly so when combined with daily flossing in between teeth and at the gum line. Not to mention, manual toothbrushes cost less, so everyone has access to them!
On the other hand, if a dental patient shows signs of irregular brushing habits, the manual brush may not do the job.
Additionally, patients with arthritic hands and other disabilities that affect dexterity may find themselves experiencing difficulties with manual toothbrushes. Unless the patient or a caregiver modifies the handle, a wider gripped electric toothbrush can better help them get the job done.
The Electric Toothbrush
Speaking of electric toothbrushes, these modern babies have been around and popular since right around the 60’s in the United States. Either battery-powered or plugged into a bathroom outlet, this spinning-headed gadget delivers literally tens of thousands of brushing stroke per minute.
One thing that many patients love about electric toothbrushes is that you no longer have to do the grunt work of brushing your teeth. You just let the brush do the work for you for the most part! Just start and go, steering accurately around the mouth, including teeth, gums, tongue, and roof of the mouth. The dental routine is completed in what seems to be a much faster time.
In particular, children find electric brushes fun to use. The fancy styles and shapes appeal to the needs of young dental patients. Many of them may have seen their favorite cartoon character on toothbrushes! Additionally, the big handle conquers manual dexterity issues. Many dentists and hygienists believe electric models can help patients achieve a better, deeply cleaned mouth.
Two drawbacks to the electric toothbrush are the initial cost and vibrating bristles. Some individuals find the motion and feel of the bristles tickly or distracting.
Bottom Line: Pick the Best Brush for You
As your dental team, your dentist and hygienist know your oral health needs and habits. They will always steer you I the best direction for optimal oral health, whether that be manual or electric toothbrushes. They encourage you to evaluate your oral health and look at which will help you take the best care of your teeth.
About Our Office
From the beginning to the end of the planning process, our team at Olberding Dental enjoys giving our patients the best possible outcome. That’s why Dr. Louis Olberding offers complete dental exams during every appointment. This way, we can evaluate your current dental health and help you improve it with dental care tips for home. If you have any questions, feel free to call our friendly dental team.