Are electric toothbrushes better than manual ones?
Modern toothbrushes offer more than just basic cleaning—they can revolutionize your oral care routine. Premium electric toothbrushes not only time your brushing for optimal duration but also provide alerts if you're brushing too hard, safeguarding your teeth and gums from damage.
Despite these advancements, many still opt for traditional manual toothbrushes. According to a 2022 Mintel report, 41 percent of adults prefer electric, while 58 percent stick to manual.
The debate between electric and manual toothbrushes has raged since the 1960s, when electric models emerged. Cost is a factor, with manual brushes costing less than a dollar and basic electric ones starting at under $10. However, high-end "smart" electric brushes can exceed $250.
So, which is best? Dental professionals emphasize that both have merits, considering factors like personal preference, age, and health. Regardless of type, dentists universally recommend brushing for 2 minutes, twice daily—the cornerstone of oral hygiene.
Effective brushing removes plaque, the culprit behind tooth decay and gum disease. Understanding your options empowers you to choose the best tool for a bright, healthy smile. Book your cleaning at Dentistry on Britannia today!
In a comprehensive 2014 review, researchers discovered that users of electric toothbrushes experienced a 6 percent decrease in gingivitis (gum disease) within one to three months, and an impressive 11 percent reduction after three months or longer. Similarly, a 2019 German study published in Clinical Periodontology reinforced the benefits of electric toothbrushes for gum health. Over an 11-year period, University Medicine Greifswald researchers observed 2,819 adults and found that powered toothbrush users exhibited reduced progression of periodontal disease. Additionally, they enjoyed healthier gums overall and retained 19 percent more teeth compared to manual toothbrush users.
Further insights from the 2014 review highlighted that oscillating powered toothbrushes, characterized by a small round head that rotates rapidly in both directions, were marginally more effective at plaque reduction than sonic electric toothbrushes, which feature an oval head that moves or vibrates rapidly from side to side. While a 2021 meta-analysis echoed some support for this notion, the authors of the 2014 study emphasized the need for more research to confirm these findings, with the 2021 study attributing moderate certainty to this conclusion.
Despite these findings, Dr. Matt Messina, a consumer advisor with the American Dental Association (ADA), emphasizes that manual toothbrushes remain effective when used correctly. "You can brush very effectively with a manual toothbrush," he asserts. "If you receive good checkups and your dentist is confident in your thoroughness, there's no need to switch from a manual brush."
