Maintaining proper oral hygiene is the best way to protect yourself from cavities, gum disease, and other unpleasant mouth-related issues. Of course, the act of brushing your teeth can help keep plaque and unhealthy bacteria at bay, and the right type of toothbrush can really do wonders for how you brush. Given the presence of so many new electric toothbrushes on the market, many tooth-conscious consumers are beginning to rethink the notion of sticking to those traditional manual brushes. But do electric toothbrushes really come with enough extra benefits to warrant the extreme differential in cost? Dr. Stuart Levy is a dentist with offices in Medford, New Jersey, and while he certainly feels that electric toothbrushes have a lot to offer, he also understands that some people are simply more comfortable using the classic-style brush. The fact of the matter is that each type of toothbrush comes with its own set of pros and cons.
One of the biggest advantages of manual toothbrushes is that are inexpensive. A manual toothbrush can cost $1 to $5, depending on the quality of the brush. But even at the higher end of the spectrum, manual toothbrushes are extremely affordable. Another nice thing about manual toothbrushes is that most come with easy grip handles, which makes the brushing process a whole lot smoother. Some manual brushes even come with tongue scrapers, which enable users to eliminate germs and bacteria from their tongues. Finally, manual toothbrushes are easy to transport and store, making them a convenient option for those on the go.
On the other hand, a few drawbacks are inherent in manual toothbrushes. For starters, they do not come equipped with built-in timers to let you know how long you’ve been brushing. Most dentists recommend a two-minute tooth brushing session both in the morning and at night. But since the average brusher doesn’t tend to look at a watch or clock while brushing, it can be difficult to keep one’s timing straight. A second disadvantage of manual toothbrushes is that they can be difficult for some people to hold onto firmly, which can make brushing more challenging.
Electric toothbrushes, on the other hand, usually come equipped with built-in timers to let you know when you’ve been brushing for the full, recommended two-minute times. This feature is instrumental in helping users maintain proper oral hygiene. Many electric toothbrushes have large, ergonomic handles, making them comfortable and easy to maneuver. As far as sensation goes, some people love the buzzing feeling of an electric toothbrush. In fact, plenty have likened the feel of an electric toothbrush to that of a massage session inside their mouth. On the flip side, some people find that buzzing sensation rather annoying and unsettling. Finally, some electric toothbrushes are designed to dispense toothpaste, making them a convenient option for people with limited time and space (not to mention the fact that this feature is just plain cool).
While electric toothbrushes offer their fair share of benefits, they come with a couple of disadvantages. First and foremost, many electric toothbrushes on the market are quite expensive, especially in comparison to manual toothbrushes. Those looking for higher-quality electric brushes should expect to spend something in the ballpark of $200, and while some cheaper options are out there, most consumers find that they get what they pay for. Another drawback to purchasing an electric toothbrush is that many require battery replacement or recharging on a regular basis; as such, they can be less convenient for traveling or moving from place to place.
While benefits and disadvantages are inherent in both electric and manual toothbrushes, the best way to determine which brush is right for you is to try out both kinds and go with the type that you happen to like better. After all, your toothbrush can’t do you any good if you aren’t going to use it; therefore, your best bet is to opt for the kind that you’re most comfortable maneuvering, maintaining, and paying for. Remember, buying the perfect toothbrush is only part of the equation: You’ll need to practice good brushing habits and brush regularly in order to truly protect your teeth harm. So no matter which type of toothbrush you choose, at the end of the day, the power to maintain your teeth is truly in your hands, and no toothbrush will take the place of a personal commitment to proper oral care.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
