Most people want things that almost magically improve their health, including oral health. They always want the next new thing or the most tech thing. When it comes to dental health, the choice often comes down to an electric or manual toothbrush.
The truth is both can be equally effective in removing bacteria, the organisms that cause plaque and tartar, from teeth. However, each may be a better option for some specific people. You need to look at how each can help improve oral hygiene to see which option is best for you.
Below are five reasons to choose an electric toothbrush over the manual version.
You brush your teeth too quickly.
Those who rush through their oral hygiene routine without spending enough time brushing their teeth properly should probably look at buying an electric toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes typically have a spinning head that properly brushes your teeth and can feel nice in motion.
Those with manual toothbrushes are supposed to rub them in a circular motion over each tooth. Failing to take the time to do that results in poor oral hygiene which can lead to cavities and other problems. An electric toothbrush does that for you.
Plus, the pleasant sensation of an electric toothbrush may cause you to linger a little longer at brushing, giving your teeth the time they deserve.
You have arthritis or movement issues.
Those with arthritis or movement issues with their hands may want to consider an electric toothbrush. They are easier to handle and require less effort. The handles are typically larger than that of a manual toothbrush so they are easier to hold for those who have trouble grasping a toothbrush.
A pre-teen or teenager with braces.
Keeping braces clean can be challenging. It may be easier to do if they are using an electric toothbrush. It automatically scrubs and can get into crevices a regular manual toothbrush can’t reach.
Those who have trouble cleaning their teeth.
People who have misalignment issues, crevice issues, or ongoing plaque problems should consider getting an electric toothbrush. They are easier to use and can over-cleaning coverage which can be challenging for some using a manual toothbrush.
Picking a Manual Toothbrush
Manual toothbrushes remain an affordable and highly effective way to keep teeth clean. The secret is using the correct toothbrush and the recommended way of brushing.
Dentists recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush. You can pick the shape that best suits your mouth but many find the triangle or round shape comfortable and effective. The shape and style of the manual toothbrush you pick depends on your mouth.
Those with smaller mouths or with many crevices should look to the smaller, triangle, or round-shaped toothbrush heads. Children should get a toothbrush made for them since their mouths are smaller. Plus, a fun toothbrush and toothpaste may encourage them to focus on oral hygiene.
The rectangular brush is fine as far as effectiveness but choose the size that is comfortable for you.
No matter what size or style you pick, change out your toothbrush about every three to four months. The bristles wear down and become ineffective after that.
Brushing Technique
Those with a manual toothbrush should brush their teeth in small circular motions, carefully brushing each tooth, first on the outside, then on the inside, and top of the crowns. You should spend about two minutes brushing your teeth whether you use a manual or electric toothbrush.
A problem that people have, whether they use a manual or electric toothbrush, is that they tend to bear down hard to scrub their teeth. That is unnecessary and could damage your teeth. Those using a manual toothbrush should keep motions gentle. Those using an electric toothbrush shouldn’t be bearing down at all because the toothbrush is doing the work to remove debris and bacteria from the tooth’s surface.
Don’t Brush Teeth in the Shower
The newest trend of brushing teeth while in the shower is a bit of a concern. You certainly shouldn’t be doing this with an electric toothbrush but even brushing your teeth in the shower with a manual toothbrush would be a mistake.
The shower has tons of bacteria that can get on your toothbrush. You don’t want that. It may be a rush to get ready in the morning but take the extra two minutes to brush your teeth at the sink. You will do a better job and your oral health will improve.
Those who want to improve their oral health should call or book us for an exam. We can do an X-ray with one of our experienced dentists looking at your teeth and offering recommendations. Our office is here to answer all of your questions and make taking care of your teeth an easier task. Call or book an appointment today!
