Manual or electronic toothbrush: Which is best for me? We’ll discuss the options in the Farrow Orthodontics blog.
In our recent blog, we looked at how often you should replace a toothbrush. That subject will come up again, as the time to replace a brush varies depending on what type of toothbrush you have.
Manual or Electronic Toothbrush?
The American Dental Association (ADA) states that both manual and electronic (powered) toothbrushes can be effective. To help find the best choice, look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance. Notably, a product will only earn the ADA seal if there is scientific evidence for safety and efficacy.
Therefore, you can take your pick of manual or electronic toothbrushes. On the other hand, some studies indicate electronic toothbrushes have advantages for some people.
Manual or Electronic Toothbrushes?
Here are some of the pros and cons of electronic toothbrushes. Then, we’ll check out the pros and cons of manual toothbrushes.
Advantages of Electronic Toothbrushes
- Can be easier for those with mobility issues (arthritis, carpal tunnel, etc.)
- Many have built-in timers to encourage brushing for two minutes
- Replacement brush heads are smaller (less waste)
- Helps encourage brushing for some people and makes it fun for kids
- Easier for those with braces, orthodontic appliances
- Today, models have long-lasting, rechargeable batteries
- Rotating (oscillating) bristles can remove plaque effectively
- Generally ok in airline carry-on-bags (check to be sure)
Additionally, using an electronic toothbrush may be gentler on the teeth and gums. People tend to brush harder with a manual brush, which can wear tooth enamel and irritate gums.
Cons of an Electronic Toothbrush
- Costs more, between $15 – $250 or more
- Brush heads need replacing more often (12 weeks versus 4 months)
- Harder to find replacement brush heads (except online)
- May not remove plaque better than manual brushing
- Some people may not like how it feels
- More waste and expense when it eventually needs replacing
- Slight risk of fire from lithium-ion batteries (extremely rare)
Lastly, rotating bristles may work better than only vibrating toothbrushes. Also, today’s models tend to have many settings so you can control the pattern of vibrations. Thus, you can choose a favorite setting or switch it up to keep it interesting.
Lastly, the timers and vibrations may help some people keep brushing going for two minutes twice daily. Each day, flossing once at some point is recommended. Notably, it doesn’t matter what time you floss as long as you do it.
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Advantages of Manual Toothbrushes
When choosing a manual toothbrush, it’s a good idea to look for the ADA Seal and choose soft bristles. Today, there are thousands of choices that fall into this category. As always, we’ll be happy to recommend products if you ask.
- Very inexpensive and readily available
- Variety of colors and fun characters for kids
- Needs replacing less often (generally every 3-4 months)
- Works as well as electronic toothbrushes for many people
- Easy to carry while traveling (travel-sizes)
When choosing a manual toothbrush, angled, multi-level bristles may do the job better than flat bristles.
Cons for Manual Toothbrushes
- People may brush too hard with manual brushes (choose a soft brush)
- No built-in timers or settings
- Some people may be less interested in brushing
- Replacing larger brushes creates more waste
As for the last point, people tend to use over 300 manual toothbrushes in a lifetime. Fortunately, there are eco-friendly toothbrushes now with handles made from recycled plastic, bamboo, and other plant-based materials.
Manual or Electronic Toothbrushes? Which is Best For You?
After considering all the pros and cons of a manual or electronic toothbrush, which one is for you? As you can see, either type of brush is acceptable. However, if you think an electronic brush will encourage you and make it easier to brush, there are some advantages.
In the end, an ADA-approved toothbrush with soft bristles is the one that’s right for you. Both fancy electronic toothbrushes and standard manual brushes can get the job done. By brushing twice daily and flossing once, you are doing your part from home to maintain oral health.
Have any questions? Call us anytime at (215)247-9060 for our Mt. Airy Office.
Or, call us at (215) 569-9060 for our Center City Office.
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Dr. Farrow and our team at Farrow Orthodontics are experts in orthodontic treatment. We are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have in Philadelphia, PA, Center City, PA, Logan Square, PA, and Rittenhouse Square, PA.
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