Which is Best, Electric or Manual Toothbrushes?

By brushing and flossing every day, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy -- but are you using the right brushing tools? Whilst manual toothbrushes are the traditional choice, electric toothbrushes are rapidly gaining in popularity. Read on to learn how manual and electric toothbrushes compare in three crucial categories so you can decide which is right for you. 

Which Type of Toothbrush Works Better?

In most cases, electric toothbrushes are more effective than their manual counterparts. This is mainly due to one simple reason: the electric brush continually oscillates, which means it can more easily access plaque to power it away. Whilst brushing with a standard toothbrush, you just can't reach every crevice as well as an electric toothbrush can, even if you use optimal brushing technique. You can't compensate for this by applying extra pressure whilst manually brushing, either: that is more likely to lead to bleeding gums than cleaner teeth. 

Which wins for effectiveness? The electric toothbrush is the clear winner when it comes to effectiveness.

Which Toothbrush is Easier to Use?

Both manual and electric toothbrushes are quite easy to use, and it takes only around two minutes to do a thorough brushing job with either type of brush. With the electric toothbrush, it might be a bit easier to brush because you don't have to be particularly mindful of technique -- the oscillating brush does that for you. With the manual toothbrush, you need to pay close attention to technique so you can ensure the bristles reach all the crevices between the teeth. 

Which wins for ease of use? Whilst both are easy to use, you'll expend less effort with an electric toothbrush than you will with a manual one.

Which Toothbrush is Cheaper?

When it comes to toothbrush cost, the manual toothbrush is cheaper. Most dentists recommend replacing manual toothbrushes every three months, and even when you swap it right on time you're spending just a few dollars at a time. With electric toothbrushes, you'll need to make the initial investment in the toothbrush itself. You'll then have to swap toothbrush heads at about the same interval as you'd replace a manual brush. 

Which wins for lower cost? The manual toothbrush is considerably cheaper than its electric counterpart. However, keep in mind that you'll only need to buy the electric toothbrush base once -- the toothbrush heads are the only part that needs regular replacement. 

As you can see, electric toothbrushes win most categories when compared to manual toothbrushes. As long as you're willing to spend some extra money in the beginning, your electric toothbrush can be a great purchase that yield better oral health, both now and in the future!


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