Manual vs. Electric Toothbrush

Brushing your teeth every day is one of the most important parts of your oral healthcare routine. Because there are many different toothbrushes on the market, it can feel a bit overwhelming deciding which one you should buy. In this blog post, we compare manual vs. electric toothbrushes.

Manual Toothbrushes

The force behind a traditional manual toothbrush comes solely from the patient’s effort. Proper care must be taken to exert enough force to effectively clean off food particles and bacteria while not being too aggressive, which could damage the enamel.

Manual toothbrushes are inexpensive so they are accessible for all income brackets. They are also easy to transport because they don’t require any batteries or charging stations.

With proper brushing technique and routine replacement, a manual toothbrush can clean your teeth well and reduce your risk of dental disease.

Electric Toothbrushes

The best kind of electric toothbrush has a simple charging port. Depending on the brand, the bristles on the heads physically turn in circles and/or vibrate back and forth to break up plaque and scrape away food particles.

The upfront cost and brushhead replacement for an electric toothbrush is more expensive than a manual toothbrush, which may deter some patients. And to travel with them, you must have access to electricity to charge it.

Electric toothbrushes take much of the “work” out of brushing, which makes them more enjoyable to use for many patients. This is particularly true for elderly patients and those with disabilities or limited mobility. The brushing experience is also improved with extra features, such as a signal to deter brushing with excessive pressure and a two-minute timer so you’re more likely to brush long enough.

Which Type of Toothbrush Is Right for Me?

You should brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time with a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss every day, consume a balanced a diet, avoid tobacco products, and visit us for routine cleanings and checkups. If you’re struggling to decide between a manual or an electric toothbrush, consult with our team at Donald Kim, DDS, Family & Cosmetic Dentistry at your next appointment. We want to help you make informed decisions about your oral healthcare.

Contact us today to schedule a visit to our office in Monroe, WA! If you’re new to our practice, be sure to check out our new patient special.

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