Did you know that poor dental hygiene can cause more serious health issues like cardiovascular disease and respiratory infections? That’s why it’s essential to set up habits that promote good oral health from an early age.
An essential way to promote healthy dental hygiene is by brushing your teeth every day. But the method you use to brush your teeth is just as important as how frequently you do it.
In the debate of manual vs. electric toothbrush, it’s about which one will get your mouth the cleanest. Let’s answer the age-old question: Which is better, a manual toothbrush or an electric toothbrush?
Benefits of a Manual Toothbrush
As the original form of toothbrushes, the manual toothbrush as we know it has been the go-to for nearly a century. It’s a favorite because it’s easy to use, accessible to many, and affordable.
With many different styles, levels of softness, and materials available, finding a manual toothbrush you like is as easy as a trip to the grocery store.
They’re very affordable; you can get multiple toothbrushes in a single pack for a few dollars. This will give you a year’s worth of toothbrushes since you should replace your brushes every three months.
Of course, manual toothbrushes do the work of removing plaque and food debris from your teeth. And the manual styles often offer better control of where and how your brush.
Disadvantages of a Manual Toothbrush
While a manual toothbrush has pros, there are also some cons to use the style. There have been studies that show that manual toothbrushes are not as effective at removing plaque.
Plaque is, of course, what can damage your teeth if there is sufficient buildup. So you have to be vigilant with a manual toothbrush that you’re getting a thorough cleaning.
A minor disadvantage is that there is no built-in timer with a manual toothbrush. Since brushing for the recommended two minutes is essential for good hygiene, you’ll have to ensure you don’t finish too quickly.
Another disadvantage is that many people tend to brush harshly with a manual toothbrush. The added and unnecessary pressure can cause damage to your teeth and gums.
A manual brush can also cause issues for people with limited mobility, making brushing a difficult task.
Benefits of an Electric Toothbrush
The popularity of electric toothbrushes has risen in the last couple of years. With many options, you’re able to find one that fits the best in your oral hygiene routine.
You may find an electric toothbrush easier to use than a manual for those with limited mobility. Since they do most of the work for you, those with arthritis, carpal tunnel, and developmental disabilities may prefer electric.
An electric toothbrush may also be the best way to improve your dental hygiene. The extra movement makes it easier to get in between the teeth, so you remove more plaque and food debris.
With features like a built-in electric timer, electric toothbrushes ensure that you’re brushing for the recommended two minutes. This is a great way to build good dental hygiene habits for both children and adults.
Disadvantages of an Electric Toothbrush
With all the reasons to buy an electric toothbrush, there are some downsides as well. On average, electric toothbrushes cost more than a manual, so they may not be accessible for every price range.
Besides the upfront cost, there are ongoing costs involved. You’ll have to buy replacement brush heads as often as you would a manual brush. These replacement heads may be more expensive than traditional brushes.
Finding replacement heads for your electric toothbrush may also be a more difficult task. You may have to special order them if the replacement heads are not sold in stores.
To operate the electric brush, you may also have to have a set of batteries on hand. This is a cost many may not consider when they first purchase an electric brush. The extra batteries used to operate can create excess waste.
Which Is Best for Braces?
As tough as they look, braces are actually very fragile machinery. You have to take precautions to brush braces with the proper technique to not cause any damage.
While both toothbrushes are great options for someone with braces, the better option is an electric toothbrush. They promote better oral hygiene during your orthodontic treatment.
Electric toothbrushes help to get in between the teeth as well as in between the brackets. This can help remove stuck food debris and plaque much easier.
However, if you use a manual brush with braces, it’s important to be gentle while brushing. Use small circular motions at a 45-degree angle on all surfaces of the teeth.
Which Is Best for Kids?
Instilling good oral hygiene practices in kids from a young age is essential for their future health. Teaching them how to brush their teeth properly is a good place to start before your child’s first dental visit.
So which kind of toothbrush should you give your kids? Both are effective when it comes to cleaning your child’s teeth. But the best option for young children may be an electric toothbrush.
Electric toothbrushes are easier to use, so they can help your child get the motion of brushing their teeth. With the extra brushing power, you can be sure they clean the whole tooth’s surface to get rid of plaque and debris.
Many modern electric toothbrushes offer engaging incentives that make brushing fun for kids. Two-minute timers, playing music, and connecting to apps to play games are just a few ways to make kids want to brush their teeth.
Manual vs. Electric Toothbrush: What’s the Verdict?
So what’s the verdict of the debate on manual vs. electric toothbrush? Both have their advantages and disadvantages. Overall, one isn’t better than the other, but rather the best option for the person using the toothbrush.
When it comes down to choosing manual or electric toothbrushes, it’s often about personal preference. The best way to get a toothbrush to better your dental hygiene is to use it with a good brushing technique routinely.
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