Many people still ask the question today, which is better, a manual or electric toothbrush? The answer may not be as simple as you think. There are a variety of factors that go into picking a toothbrush. In order to make the right decision for your smile, we first must break down the different aspects to consider.
Is There A Clear Winner?
A study published by the National Institute of Health (NIH) tried to determine if there was a significant difference between the electric and manual toothbrush in plaque removal and gingival health. The study looked at three tests including three types of electric toothbrush.
1.Counter oscillating: This is your traditional rotating electric toothbrush. The clusters of bristles rotate in opposite directions removing plaque.
2.Ultrasonic: This kind of brush cleans teeth by using vibration of the brush head at ultrasonic frequencies.
3.Ionic: This electric toothbrush uses the release of ions on the brush head to remove plaque.
Each of these electric brushes were compared to the traditional manual toothbrush. The study found that there was no significant difference between the manual and electric toothbrush except for the ionic brush head. The clinical significance of this difference is not known though. So where does the idea that electric is better come from? An article from the American Dental Association (ADA) may help to explain.
Technique Is King
In an article from the ADA, previous research has shown that using an electric toothbrush for three months can reduce plaque by 21% and risk of gingivitis by 11%. The main factor in this, however, is brushing technique. One of the benefits of using the electric toothbrush is improved technique which makes it easier for people to achieve a better brush. Experts say that when brushing properly, the manual toothbrush can be just as effective as the electric.
The Hard Part: Deciding
So how do you know which is right for you? An article from Harvard Health Publishing lists a few key factors to help you with your next purchase.
- Personal Preference Matters
- The first key is to find a toothbrush you like and will use consistently. This will make you more likely to brush twice a day. This can be especially motivating for young children.
- Choose The Correct Bristles
- While hard bristles have their benefits, soft bristles can be better for sensitive gums. The last thing you want is to damage or worsen your gum health.
- Replace Your Bristles
- Replacing your toothbrush every 3 months, or when the bristles splay out, is important to getting a good brush. This will make sure your brush head stays clean and effective.
Final Thoughts
Whichever toothbrush you decide is right for you, be sure to brush with proper technique. This is what gives you that nice brush that leaves your teeth feeling smooth. And remember, improper technique not only effects how clean your teeth get, but it can also be damaging to your gum health. If you have braces, be sure to talk to your orthodontist about proper brushing techniques so you can still get that great clean. Your teeth will love you for it.
Sources:
Are electric toothbrushes really better for your teeth?. American Dental Association. (n.d.). https://adanews.ada.org/huddles/are-electric-toothbrushes-really-better-for-your-teeth/
Godman, H. (2024, September 27). What’s the right way to brush your teeth? Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/whats-the-right-way-to-brush-your-teeth-202211232854
Vibhute, A., & Vandana, K. L. (2012, April). The effectiveness of manual versus powered toothbrushes for plaque removal and Gingival Health: A meta-analysis. Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3459492/
