Are Electric Toothbrushes better than Manual Toothbrushes?

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There are literally hundreds of toothbrushes on sale, with many different types sporting many different features so which is the right one to choose? The first and most important factor to take into account is which one will allow you to better care for your teeth. For a long time it was popularly thought that electric toothbrushes were superior to manual brushes due to the fact they were powered and the oscillation-based cleaning ensured increased and better contact with your teeth. However, recent studies into the effectiveness of electric toothbrushes have found that most models don't provided significant benefits to oral health when compared to manual brushes. That is not to say that electric toothbrushes don't have their uses; for patients with limited dexterity or a medical condition such as arthritis, which makes cleaning the hard-to-reach areas of their mouth difficult, electric toothbrushes are ideal.

When considering the cost of your tooth brush, you are likely to find that manual brushes are considerably cheaper than their electric counterparts. This is partly due to the powered features and several other add-ons which feature in a range of electric tooth brushes such as a timer to let you know when you have been brushing for a full two minutes or a brush head that dispenses toothpaste as you clean. Having powered features is a double edged sword, however. When travelling with a manual brush it is really easy to carry in your wash bag but electric brushes will often require extensive charging or battery equipment. Also, electric toothbrushes don't have a monopoly on ergonomic features. Manual brushes are increasingly kitted out with a range of features such as specially designed handles, brush heads designed to allow better contact and cleaning and even a tongue cleaner on the reverse side of the brush head. It is also worth pointing out that although they are more costly, electric toothbrushes will have a significantly longer life than their manual counterparts, which should ideally be replaced every three months.

At the end of the day, the electric toothbrush or manual toothbrush that is right for you is mostly down to personal preference. The way you brush is much more important than what toothbrush you have. So make sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day for a minimum of two minutes at a time. Use gentle and short strokes as being overzealous with your brushing can often lead to dental problems.

Read more in the Dental Treatment Information Guide »

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