Are Electric Toothbrushes Better Than Regular Toothbrushes?

Many of us are taught to brush our teeth every day to prevent conditions like tooth decay and gingivitis. Traditionally, this was done with a handheld toothbrush. But thanks to modern technology, we now have electric toothbrushes to do the brunt of the work for us. This leads many people to wonder whether electric toothbrushes are better than manual ones. Some people prefer the simplicity of a manual toothbrush, while others want the higher-tech functions of an electric one.

Each type of toothbrush has its benefits and drawbacks. What’s important is brushing consistently every day. The official guidance from the Canadian Dental Association is to brush your teeth every day, ideally after every meal. Talk with your dentist if you're thinking about your toothbrush options. Whether one type of toothbrush is better for you may depend on your individual oral health needs.

Why Use an Electric Toothbrush

Considering an electric toothbrush? They do provide certain benefits, such as helping those with mobility issues and potential savings in the long term.

Effective & Efficient

In terms of raw cleaning power, electric toothbrushes generally win. Research shows that electric toothbrushes are better at cleaning plaque and preventing cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease. Oscillating-rotating technology (where the head of the toothbrush spins and rotates) has been shown to clean better than manual toothbrushes since 2005. 

Makes Brushing Easier for Some Folks

People with certain conditions may find electric toothbrushes easier to use. These toothbrushes do most of the work for you. All you need to do is guide it around your teeth and gums. This can be helpful for individuals who have challenges with mobility and dexterity, such as people with arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome.

Special Features

Many electric toothbrush models come with neat features like a timer, pressure sensor, and different modes to help you optimize your brushing. These features can help you brush your teeth for a long enough time and avoid brushing too hard. Some toothbrushes even come with an app that helps you improve on your brushing habits.

Why Use a Manual Toothbrush

Despite the high-tech features of electric toothbrushes, many people still prefer manual toothbrushes. And they do offer several advantages.

Affordable & Convenient

Manual toothbrushes win when it comes to affordability and accessibility. Unlike electric toothbrushes, manual ones typically cost just a few dollars and are widely available at any drugstore or supermarket. They also don’t require charging or batteries, making them a great choice for travel.

Easy to Use

The simplicity of manual toothbrushes is another advantage. Some people find the many features of an electric toothbrush too overwhelming or complicated. But with a manual toothbrush, you control the speed and pressure yourself. Manual toothbrushes also come in a wide assortment of sizes, shapes, and bristle textures.

Sustainability & Cost

Because toothbrushes are so widely bought and used, you may be thinking about sustainability and cost when you shop for yours.

The cost of an electric toothbrush can range from $20CAD to more than $500CAD. While an electric toothbrush lasts much longer than a manual one, do note that you must replace brush heads every 3 months. Brand name brush heads can cost $20CAD for a pack of one or two heads.

Manual toothbrushes vary in cost as well, but you can buy basic multipacks for under $10CAD.

What about sustainability? Interestingly, electric toothbrushes may not be more eco-friendly than manual ones, according to a recent news report. If sustainability is important to you, current research suggests choosing either manual toothbrushes with replaceable heads or bamboo toothbrushes.

The Best Toothbrush For You

Both manual and electric toothbrushes offer benefits to your oral health when used correctly. While it's true that electric toothbrushes offer some features that manual brushes can’t, like timers and rotating brush heads, they're not the only option and may not be the best fit for everyone.

If you want to be proactive about your oral health, keep the Canadian Dental Association brushing guidelines in mind:

• Ideally, brush after every meal; if not, brush at least once a day before you go to bed at night
• Use a brush with soft bristles and replace your toothbrush every 3 months
• Place your toothbrush in the spot where the teeth and gums meet, at a 45-degree angle
• Brush in a gentle, circular, up-and-down motion; brushing too hard can damage your gums 
• Try changing up your brushing pattern once in a while, in case your habitual pattern misses spots!

Ultimately, brush your teeth consistently and replace your toothbrushes when necessary.

Have more questions? We’re happy to help. At Embrace Dental Care, we are strongly committed to disease prevention and we offer both comprehensive examinations and dental cleanings to adults and children of all ages. We can also help you define your health goals and make a treatment plan that respects your needs and budget. Contact us today to book your next appointment.