Are Electric Toothbrushes Better?

The key to maintaining tooth and gum health is removing as much plaque as possible before it turns into tartar, which is a calcified substance that forms just under the gum line and can only be removed via a professional cleaning. When it comes to brushing your teeth, you can choose between a manual or electronic toothbrush, and it can be difficult to determine which would be best.

Electric Toothbrushes

There are many different styles and types of electronic toothbrushes. Some have vibrating heads. Others use high speed rotating bristles or ultrasonic pulses to remove plaque, which is a sticky substance that provides a breeding ground for bacteria and can lead to cavities and gum disease. Electric toothbrushes are known to remove more plaque than manual toothbrushes. However, the results are dependent on the individual’s brushing technique and their ability to brush their teeth for the required amount of time.

Proper Brushing Technique

Proper brushing technique involves brushing for at least three minutes and reaching every area of the teeth and gums. Individuals should angle the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gum line in order to effectively remove plaque. Then, every surface of the teeth, including the front, back and top should be brushed to loosen food particles.

Electric Toothbrushes Vs. Manual Toothbrushes

Electric and manual toothbrushes both have their benefits and drawbacks. For individuals that have difficulty reaching every tooth surface and properly angling the brush while cleaning their teeth, an electric toothbrush may be better. For individuals with good brushing techniques who don’t press too hard on the teeth and gums, a manual toothbrush may be the right choice.

Manual Toothbrushes

Manual toothbrushes require the individual to be able to angle the toothbrush and move the brush in a tight, circular motion in order to thoroughly remove all the plaque and food particles from the teeth and gums. If the individual can accomplish these tasks and their oral health checkups do not indicate the presence of tooth decay, cavities or gum disease, the individual may not need an electric toothbrush to achieve a clean mouth and healthy teeth and gums.

Pros of Manual Toothbrushes

• Can Travel Anywhere
• Extremely Affordable
• No Batteries or Charging Required
• Numerous Styles and Brush heads Available

Cons of Manual Toothbrushes

• Brushing too Hard Can Cause Gum Recession
• May Be Difficult to Use for Individuals with Dexterity Problems
• Proper Brushing Technique Is Essential

Electric Toothbrushes

If the individual has difficulty angling the brush and moving the toothbrush correctly, an electric toothbrush may offer an effective alternative. Since the bristles of the electric toothbrush move on their own, there is no need to move the brush in a circular motion while angling it. Instead, the individual only has to focus on angling the toothbrush while cleaning the gums and reaching every part of the tooth surface. This can be extremely helpful for individuals with limited dexterity in their hands due to arthritis or other injuries.

Pros of Electric Toothbrushes

• Great for Individuals with Arthritis
• Less Risk of Brushing too Hard
• Many Come with Timers
• Proper Brushing Technique is Easier to Achieve

Cons of Electric Toothbrushes

• More Expensive Than Manual Toothbrushes
• More Likely to Break if Dropped
• Not as Easily Transportable
• Requires Frequent Charging or New Batteries

Oral Health Checkups and Teeth Cleanings in Clermont, FL

Along with proper oral hygiene at home, you will need regular oral health checkups and teeth cleanings from our dentist in Clermont, FL. Having your mouth, tongue, teeth and gums examined and your teeth and gums cleaned, can help prevent oral health problems, like gingivitis and periodontal disease, which can adversely affect your oral health. During your appointment, you can also ask questions about how to maintain your oral health, like which toothpastes and toothbrushes would best meet your needs.

Our dentist, Dr. Shovon Kasem, DMD, at Hancock Village Dental, offers family dental services that include x-rays, dental cleanings and sealants as well as cosmetic and restorative procedures. To learn more about how to properly care for your teeth and gums and to schedule a dental checkup and cleaning, call us at 352-989-5815.