Is an Electric Toothbrush or Manual Toothbrush Better?

Dr. Ryan Gunn - Cedar City Dentist

Is an Electric Toothbrush or Manual Toothbrush Better?

With the continual development of new and improved toothbrushes, people often wonder if they should be using a manual toothbrush or an electric toothbrush. There are several pros and cons to both these types of products. Electric toothbrushes are often expensive, but can last longer and produce better results. Manual toothbrushes are not timed, and may result in a person not brushing his or her teeth long enough. It is recommended you brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day; with a manual brush, this is often cut short. Electric toothbrushes may have bulky, heavy handles; but companies are coming out with ergonomically shaped handles that will ease this problem.

There have been many studies to determine the effectiveness of both these products. Though there are different types of electric and manual toothbrushes, in general it is fair to say that electric brushes are more effective. With the different types of brush heads available, it is possible to choose which one fits your comfort. The rotation of the brush head, which allows for a more thorough cleaning, is also difficult to mimic with a manual toothbrush. Several brushes and brush heads on electric toothbrushes are smaller, allowing better access to hard-to-reach places in the mouth, such as the back teeth. Electric toothbrushes like Sonicare or Oral-B Rechargeable brushes can be expensive; however, many brands are coming out with their own electric brushes that are not as complex but serve the same function and cost an affordable amount. Dr. Ryan Gunn of All About Smiles Dentistry offers a free Oral-B electric toothbrush after the completion of a new patient exam. His dental practice serves the southern Utah community of Cedar City.

What is most important, though, is that you are brushing your teeth. This task is necessary for your oral health; and now there are several different options to help you complete this task. Like other products that differ in what they offer, it is a personal choice which one is most comfortable and best for your personal care.

For more information, please visit Dr. Ryan Gunn's website at www.cedarcitysmiles.com. Dr. Ryan Gunn - Cedar City dentist