Do You Really Need an Electric Toothbrush?
You’ve likely been tempted to buy an expensive electric toothbrush at some point. That’s understandable! We’ve been conditioned to believe that the more expensive something is, the better it will be. Plus, the additional technology makes us think electric toothbrushes must be better than regular manual ones.
Here’s what we want you to know upfront: It doesn’t matter what type of toothbrush you use, as long as you use it!
You should brush your teeth twice a day with a toothbrush that has the ADA Seal of Acceptance. As long as you’re maintaining healthy oral care habits, you’re doing the right thing for your teeth. But many patients ask us if they need to spend the extra money for an electric toothbrush, so let’s explore the pros and cons.
Electric Toothbrushes May Remove More Plaque
There have been studies suggesting electric toothbrushes may remove more plaque upfront than manual toothbrushes. Research shows, "In general, electric toothbrushes do decrease more plaque and gingivitis than manual toothbrushes. After three months of use, plaque was reduced by 21 percent and gingivitis by 11 percent."
However, these percentages aren’t significant enough for dentists to recommend electric toothbrushes to all patients. The differences tend to be pretty minimal. While not insignificant, there’s no huge black-and-white difference between maintaining good oral health with a manual toothbrush versus an electric one.
Additionally, the type of electric toothbrush matters. Toothbrushes that simply vibrate aren’t as effective as those that oscillate or rotate.
Electric Toothbrushes Help Certain People
While dentists don’t think the studies show enough significance to recommend all patients use electric toothbrushes, most agree that some individuals benefit from them:
Arthritis sufferers: Those with certain ailments, such as arthritis, may find an electric toothbrush easier to use than a manual one.
Braces wearers: Individuals with orthodontia may find electric toothbrushes helpful for cleaning around brackets and wires.
Heavy brushers: Some people tend to brush too hard, causing problems for teeth and gums. An electric toothbrush reassures them their teeth are getting cleaned without excess force.
Electric Toothbrushes Make Brushing Easier
Statistics show that 123.61 million Americans used power toothbrushes in 2019. One reason for this popularity is that people think they make toothbrushing easier.
Many electric toothbrushes have timers that alert users when they’ve brushed for two minutes, as recommended by dentists. Studies also found that people were more focused when brushing with an electric toothbrush.
Plus, many people simply believe electric toothbrushes are more fun than manual ones, especially kids. If you enjoy brushing with your toothbrush, you’re more apt to use it consistently. The best toothbrush is one you’re most likely to use—and use well.
The Downsides of Electric Toothbrushes
Not Better for Traveling
Electric toothbrushes aren’t better for travel. You need to pack a plug adaptor for hotels and homes you visit. It’s also hard to find replacement heads if you forget to pack yours. You can find and purchase a manual toothbrush almost anywhere.
More Expensive
Electric toothbrushes typically cost more than manual ones. Depending on the brand, type, and features, prices range from $20–$150. Plus, you’ll need to budget for replacement heads, which are a must.
What the ADA Says
The American Dental Association states: "Both manual and powered toothbrushes are effective at removing plaque. While the powered toothbrushes can be more expensive than most manual toothbrushes, some people prefer the powered version."
The ADA emphasizes that "People who have dexterity problems—like the elderly, people with disabilities, or children—or those who have dental appliances, like braces, may find a powered toothbrush easier to use." What really matters is that people brush for two minutes, twice a day.
What You Should Look for When Shopping
When choosing a toothbrush, decide between an electric toothbrush or a manual one based on these considerations:
- Your lifestyle: Will you actually use it consistently?
- Your dexterity: Do you have any conditions that make manual brushing difficult?
- Your budget: Can you afford the initial cost and replacement heads?
- What works for you: Some people love the feel of an electric toothbrush; others hate it.
Both can be used effectively to clean your teeth, remove plaque, and prevent gingivitis. The key is using whichever one you’ll actually use correctly—for two minutes, twice a day, every day.
The Most Important Thing
Regardless of which type of toothbrush you choose, what’s really been proven to work is maintaining regular dental check-ups. By visiting Greenspoint Dental regularly, you can prevent problems before they happen or keep issues from becoming worse. We can also provide advice about the types of toothbrushes available and demonstrate how to use them effectively.